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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



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■ J 

THE 



FORTY-THIRD REGIMENT 

UNITED STATES 



COLORED TROOPS. 




GETTYSBURG: 

J. E. WIBLE, PRINTER, NORTH-EAST CORNER OE THE DIAMOND. 

1866. 



INTRODUCTION. 



'No apology can be -necessary for the publication of the following- 
jpages, as it is no unworthy or mercenary object they seek to obtain. 
They have been elicited by request of numerous friends of the officers 
,of this regiment and of the eolored troops, designed for their own use;. 
, : and their object is not simply to give succinct statements of individual 
military history, or of any single command of the Colored Troop, but 
5 to furnish, also, at the same time, an unanswerable argument on the 
subject of this Troop, as an element in the military service on the side 
,of Freedom and tJbe Union ; their extraordinary good discipline, effi- 
ciency and bravery, and the fact that they are very susceptible of intel- 
lectual and moral culture. We present it in compliance with the re- 
quest J,hat has been made, subservient to this purpose. 

J. M, MICKLEY, 
lode Chaplain the Regiment. 



COMMISSIONED OFFICERS 

FORTY-THIRD REGIMENT 

UNITED STATES COLORED TROOPS, 

INCLUDING A BRIEF HISTORY OF THEIR MILITARY 
CAREER. 



BREVET BRIG, GEN. S. B. YEOMAN. 

This officer, formerly Colonel Commanding this 
Regiment, is a native of Washington, Ohio. His 
great-grand-father, James Yeoman, served with dis- 
tinction as a Captain in the war of the Revolution, 
and his grand-father as a First Lieutenant in the 
war of 1812. 

Before entering the United States service the Gen- 
eral was a sea-man, whose experience of nautical life 
extends over a decade of years. He started as a 
sailor before the mast at fifteen years of age. His first 
voyage was on a whaling expedition of three years 
in the ship "Alexander," which was wrecked on the 
South Island of New Zealand. The boats, to which 
all fled for safety, became unmanageable ; and not 
until after suffering great hardships on the deep, he 



6 Bt. Brig. Gen. S. B. Yeoman. 

with a few others were accidently rescued. After 
this he made several voyages to South America, 
Asia arid Africa; and returned shortly before the out- 
break of the Rebellion. He at once determined to 
remain and identify himself with the cause of the 
Union and its Free Institutions. 

He volunteered as a private in Co. F. 22nd Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry April 20th 1861, and was after- 
wards appointed First Sergeant of his Company. 
With this command he continued in Western Vir- 
ginia, under General Rosencrans until it was dis- 
charged by reason of expiration of term of service. 
At home he immediately commenced the work of 
Recruiting ; and returned again to the field Septem- 
ber 15th 1861 as Captain of Co. A. 54th Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry. 

At Corinth, General Yeoman, then a Captain, 
was particularly selected by Maj. General Sherman, 
to take command of ten picked men,, and with these 
to penetrate the Rebel lines in order to ascertain 
their forces, and more especially the movements 
they were inaugurating. The task was a perilous 
one; but he accomplished it with entire success, re- 
turning with very valuable information, for which he 
obtained the hearty thanks of the General in com- 
mand and of the Department. 

While gallantly in the discharge of duty he has 
received the following wounds, viz. : In the battle of 



Bt. Brig. Gen. S. B. Yeoman. 7 

Shiloh, April 6th and 7th 1862, slightly wounded in 
the breast and left leg ; in the battle of RusseFs 
House, June 1862, wounded again in left leg; woun- 
ded in arm and abdomen on different occasions on 
the picket line $ in the battle of Arkansas Post, Jan- 
uary 10th and 11th 1863, while in command of his 
Regiment, severely wounded by a shell in right arm, 
almost entirely severing the arm below the elbow. 
Amputation became necessary immediately on the 
field ; and after this he was conveyed to a Hospital 
Boat on the Mississippi River, and finally reached 
home. For his distinguished services he was ap- 
pointed Major of his Regiment, but such was the 
condition of his wound that any attempt to return to 
the field was considered unadvisable, and he, there- 
fore, respectfully declined the promotion. He re- 
signed on account, of his serious loss. This officer 
won an estimable name in his services with the 
Western Army. 

He was appointed Captain in the Veteran Reserve 
Corps, Commanding 6th Co. 2nd Battalion, on 
duty in Cincinnatti. In May 1864, he received from 
the President of the United States the appointment 
of Colonel of this Regiment. Instead of reporting 
immediately to the command, he was detailed by 
order of the War Department to Camp Casey, Vir- 
ginia, as Superintended of Recruiting Service and 
Chief Mustering officer of North East District of 



8 Bt. Brig. Gen. S. B. Yeowan. 

Virginia. He continued in this office until Novem- 
ber 29th, 1864, when he rejoined this Regiment in 
the field, then on the Bermuda Front, Virginia. 
He led this command in all the actions after that 
date, including the triumphant capture of Richmond, 
April 3d, 1865. He has also been Commanding Of- 
ficer of 3d Brigade 1st Division 25f/i Corps. 

He was promoted by the President of the United 
States to Brevet Brigadier General of Volun- 
teers, "for gallant and meritorious services during 
the war," to rank as such from the 15th day of 
March, 1865. 

The following are engagements in which he has 
actively participated, viz. : Shiloh, April 6th and 7th, 
1862 ; RussePs House, June, 1862; Easel's House, 
June, 1862; heavy skirmish at Corinth, July, 1862; 
heavy skirmish at Holly Springs, July, 1862; Chick- 
asaw Bayou, (lasting six days,) December, 1862 ; 
Arkansas Post, January 10th and 11th, 1863; siege 
of Vicksburg, July, 1863; capture of Richmond, 
April 3d, 1865 and in, at least, fifteen other differ- 
ent skirmishes not mentioned in the above. 

Brevet Brigadier General Yeoman is an officer 
of ability and experience in the active service, who 
has greatly distinguished himself in action. He now 
carries the empty sleeve of his right arm as the un- 
mistakable mark of his devotion and valor. 



Bt. Col. H. Seymour Hall. 9 

BEEYET COL, E. SEYMOUR HALL, 
Brevet Colonel H. Seymour Hall, former- 
ly Lieutenant Colonel of this Regiment, and a 
native of Providence, Saratoga county New York, 
is the only son of a very patriotic widow. His 
grand-father, Moses Hall, was a soldier of the -Rev- 
olution of 1776, and served his country during the 
entire period of that eventful struggle. The Colo- 
nel was pursuing a Scientific course in Genesee 
College, New York, when the intelligence of the 
Rebel guns against Surnpter was communicated to 
the North. With others -of his collegiate compan- 
ions he immediately tendered his services to the 
Country, and was enlisted April 24th, 1861, as a 
volunteer Private in Co. G. 27th Regiment New 
York Volunteers, which Regiment was first com- 
manded by Colonel, now Major General Slocum, 
whose successor in the command was Lieutenant 
Colonel, now Major General X J. Bartlett. Upon 
the organization of the Company he was chosen 
Ensign. He afterwards was appointed Second 
Lieutenant, and then promoted to Captain. 

In the battle of Game's Hill, June 27th, 1862, he 
received a wound in his left thigh by a musket ball. 
On account of his distinguished services in that en- 
gagement he is specially spoken of by the command- 
ing officer of his Brigade, who in submitting names 
of officers whose good conduct and gallantry, par- 

2 



10 



ticularly in that action, deserved mention, states : 
"H. Seymour Hall, Captain of Co. G. 27th New 
York Volunteers, for coolness and intrepidity in the 
battle of Game's Hill ; and for displaying the traits 
of a good officer at all times." 

January 15th, 1863, he became Acting Assistant 
Inspector General on the staff* of Brigadier General 
Bartlett, commanding 2nd Brigade 1st Division 6th 
Corps ; and for his services in the battles of Chancel- 
lorsville and Salem Heights, May 3d and 4th ensu- 
ing, he is honorably mentioned in the report by that 
General commanding, who states: "during the cam- 
paigns I received the most efficient aid from Captain 
H. Seymour Hall, Acting Assistant Inspector Gen- 
eral He was brave, energetic and untiring in his 
endeavors to promote the efficiency of my com- 
mand." 

Upon the expiration of term of service of his 
Regiment he was formerly mustered-out, but imme- 
diately re-commissioned Captain in the 121st New 
York Volunteers, and continued on the staff as be- 
fore. When Colonel Upton became General Bart- 
letfs successor in command of the Brigade, he was 
placed on his staff. He is highly complimented in 
the report by this latter officer of his command in 
the battle of Rappahannock Station, November 7th, 
1863. "From my own staff I received, in every in- 
stance, prompt and gallant assistance, and to their 



Bt. Col. H. Seymour Hall. 11 

united efforts may be attributed, in a great measure, 
the promptness with which both regiments re-formed 
inside the works. Captain H. Seymour Hall, As- 
sistant Inspector General, entered the rifle pits with 
the men." After this engagement he was promoted 
to Acting Assistant Adjutant General on the 
staff of this Brigade commander, which position he 
held in connection with the other until his commis- 
sion in this Regiment. 

It may not be improper to introduce here a few 
extracts of communications setting forth the high 
appreciation of Colonel Hall for his ability and bra- 
very, by very competent Judges. Brigadier General 
Jackson, Commander of 2nd Brigade, 2nd Division, 
12th Corps, in his letter addressed to Adjutant Gen- 
eral of the State of New York, requesting the 
appointment of Captain Hall to Colonel of the 
145th New York Volunteers, which Regiment was 
in his Brigade, and without a Colonel, states: u ! 
have known Captain Hall for the past fifteen months, 
and consider him every way qualified to fill the above 
mentioned position." Major General Slocum's en- 
dorsement on this paper testifies : a I know Captain 
Hall to be a capable, efficient and faithfull officer, 
and most cordially unite with General Jackson in 
this recommendation.'' Major General Slocum 
himself, also, in a letter relating to the same subject, 
and. addressed to the same Officer of State, closes 



12 Bt. Col. H. Seymour Hall. 

with the remarks : "I am well acquainted with him 
(Captain Hall.) and know him to be a capable and 
efficient officer, and think his appointment would be 
a great benefit to the service. Captain Hall has no 
knowledge of my intention to recommend him for 
this position, and in doing it I am only ^actuated by a 
desire to improve the condition of the troops under 
my command." For some reason or other, left un- 
satisfactory unexplained, the State Executive made 
no appointment whatever. In consequence of this 
the Regiment alluded to was obliged to forego its 
organization, and be consolidated with others. 

Captain Hall was appointed by the President 
Lieutenant Colonel of this Regiment, March 20th, 
1864. After reporting at Camp William Penn, 
Philadelphia, he completed the organization of its 
1st Battalion composed of the first six Companies, 
with which he joined the 9th Corps at Annapolis, 
Maryland, April 19th, 1864. He commanded it 
through all the engagements in the Wilderness ; 
and in the memorable battle of the Mine before 
Petersburg, Virginia, July 30th, 1864, it was the 
charging Regiment which he led against the enemy's 
works. With regard to his own gallantry in lhat 
terrible engagement, the Commanding Officer of the 
2nd Brigade, 4th Division, 9th Corps, testifies: 
"Lieutenant Colonel H. Seymour Hall, Commanding 
43d Regiment United States Colored Troops, lost 



Bt. Col. H. Seymour Hall. 13 

his right arm while bravely leading his Regiment." 
Such was his anxiety that he reported again for duty 
to his Regiment when his wound wasbutpartially heal- 
ed. He was afterwards ordered to Camp Casey, Vir- 
ginia, as Commander of that Recruiting Rendezvous 
and Chief Mustering Officer of the District of Colum- 
bia. He remained in this capacity until March 20th, 
1865, the date under order of discontinuing the 
Rendezvous, when he returned to his Regiment, 
then on the front before Richmoud, Virginia. Im- 
mediately after the capture of Richmond, April 3d, 
1865, he was detailed Provost Marshal of Man- 
chester, Virginia. He conducted this office with his 
usual great ability, and also with perfect satisfaction 
to the Government. 

He was appointed by the President of the United 
States Colonel of Volunteers by Brevet "for gal- 
lant and meritorious services in the service of the 
United States, to rank as such from the 13th day of 
March 1865." This honor from the late lamented 
Chief Magistrate was most fittingly awarded. 

Colonel Hall was a member of General Court 
Martial in Camp on the Chickahominy, Virginia, of 
which Brigadier General Pratt was President, in 
May and June, 1862; Judge Advocate of General 
Court Martial in Camp near Bakersville, Maryland, 
of which Brigadier General Newton was President, 
in September, 1862 ; a member of Military Commis- 



14 Bt. Col. H. Seymour Hall. 

sion also in Camp near Bakersville, Maryland, of 
which now Brevet Major General Bartlett was 
President, in October, 1862; a member of a Board 
of Officers to examine officers as to qualification 
and fitness for their positions in the 1st Division, 
6th Corps, of which now Brevet Major General Tor- 
bert was President, in October, November and De- 
cember 1862; a member of General Court Martial 
in Camp near White Oak Church, Virginia, of which 
Colonel Cake, 96th Regiment Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers was President, in January, 1863 ; a member of 
General Court Martial at Headquarters of 2nd Bri- 
gade, 4th Division, 9(h Corps, near Petersburg, 
Virginia, of which Brevet Brigadier General Bates 
was President, in June and July, 1864, and President 
of Military Commission for the Western District of 
Texas, convened at Brownsville, Texas, which oc- 
cupied the place of Civil Court, in August and Sep- 
tember, 1865. Upon the discharge of his Regiment 
he continues in service, having reported under orders 
to Major General Wright, Headqarters Department 
of Texas, who assigned him to duty as Assistant 
Superintendant in the Freedmen's Bureau, under 
Brigadier General E. M. Gregory, Assistant Com- 
missioner of the Bureau in that State. 

The following are actions in which he has parti- 
cipated, a numbor of which were the most important 
of any during the war, viz. : First Bull Run, July 



Bt. Col. H. Seymouii Hall. 15 

31st, 1861 ; West Point, May 7th, 1862 ; heavy skirm- 
ish at Mechanicsville, May 21st 1862; Gaines Hill, 
June 27th, 1862 ; GolcWs Farm, June 28th, 1862 5 
Charles City Cross Roads, June 30th, 1862 ; Second 
Bull Run, August 30th, 1862; Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 13th, 14th and 1 5th, 1862 ; Chaneelorsville, 
May 3d, 1863; Salem Heights, May 3d and 4th, 
1863; Gettysburg, July 1st, 2d and 3d, 1863 ; heavy 
skirmish at Fairfield, Pennsylvania, July 7 th, 1863; 
heavy skirmish at Funkstown, Maryland, July 10th, 

1863 ; heavy skirmish at St. James' College, Mary- 
land, July 13th, 1863 ; Rappahannock Station, No- 
vember 7th, 1863 ; Locust Grove, November 24th, 
1863; Mine Run, November 27th,. 1863 ; Wilder- 
ness, May 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864; Spottsylva- 
nia, May 7th to 15th, 1864; Tolopotomy Creek, 
May 19th and 20th, 1864; North Anna, May 22d 
and 23d, 1864 ; Cold Harbor, June 1st to 3d, 1864 ; 
Old Church, June 10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg, 
June 18th, 1864; Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 

1864 ; and capture of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 
Brevet Colonel Hall has risen from a private to his 

present rank and office by his excellent military tal- 
ent, energy, intelligence and gentlemcnliness, and 
by his gieat gallantry in all the engagements in 
which he has participated. These have been the 
hand-maids of his success. He is a patriot who has 
accomplished a good work for his country, and who 



16 Maj. Horacf Bumstead. 

also carries the empty sleeve — the same unmistaka- 
ble mark of superior devotion and valor. 

MAJOE HOEACE BUMSTEAD. 

Major Horace Bumstead of this Regiment is a 
native of Boston, Massachusetts, and a regular grad- 
uate of Yale College, having completed his course 
in that institution in 1863. He was a member of 
the Massachusetts Rifle Club, which has contributed 
quite a number of Field and Officers of other grades 
to our army during this war, who are known as 
worthy commanders, distinguished for their ability 
and bravery. In connection with this military or- 
ganization he held the position of Sergeant, and was 
afterwards promoted to Major. Promotion could 
be secured only upon very creditable examination. 
N. Willis Bumstead, Captain of the 45th Massachu- 
setts Volunteers, a brother of the Major's, is another 
representative of this patriotic family. 

Horace Bumstead was appointed by the President 
Major of this Regiment, April 8th, 1864. After 
reporting under order at Camp William Penn, Phila- 
delphia, he there completed the organization of the 
remaining Companies, U H," "I" and "K," of the 
Regiment. He proceeded with these in a Provision- 
al Battalion to Havre-de-grace, Maryland, and thence 
to the Defences of Baltimore and Washington, to 
assist in checking the advance of the enemy, then 



Maj. Horace Bumstead. 11 

threatening those cities. Afterwards in command 
of these Companies, with detachments also belong- 
ing to other Regiments, he proceeded to the front, 
joining his own command August 3d, 1864, then on 
the line before Petersburg, Va. In the absence 
of Colonel Yeoman, (now Brevet Brigadier General) 
doing duty at Camp Casey, Va., and Brevet 
Colonel Hall, severely wounded in the battle of 
July 30th, the command devolved upon him. He 
was commanding officer of the Regiment in all the 
actions in which it participated and other duties 
until Nov. 29th, ensuing — -the date of Colonel Yeo- 
man's reporting. He has in fact been command- 
ing officer embracing a considerable period of its 
service, and was such at the time of its muster-out 
at Brownsville, Texas, during its perilous Gulf and 
Ocean voyage thence to New York, and up to its 
final discharge at Phila. 

Major Bumstead has participated in the follow- 
ing actions, viz.: Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 
20th, 1864 ; Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 
30th, 1864; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 
1864 • heavy skirmish on the Bermuda Front, in 
Dec. 1864; Farra's Island at Dutch Gap Canal, 
January 25th, 1865 ; arid capture of Richmond, 
April 3d, 1865. 

He is an officer of fine ability, intelligence and 
bravery, and whose very exemplary moral character 

3 



1$ Surgeon Ai. Waterhouse. 

made his connection with the service an honor to 
the country. 

SUKGEON AI. WATERHOUSE, 

Surgeon Ai. Waterhouse of this command is 
a native of Scarbora, Me., whose great-uncles, 
George, Nathaniel and Joseph Waterhouse were 
soldiers of the war of the Revolution, and another 
ancestor a soldier of the war of 1812. At the com- 
mencement of this struggle he decided to abandon 
the practice of his profession at Buxton, Me., and 
give his services to the country. The Medical 
Board convened at Portland, by which he was ex- 
amined, unanimouslv recommended him for the po- 
sition of Surgeon. July 24th, 1862, when he 
joined the army at Harrison's Landing, Va., he was 
assigned to the 7th Maine Infantry, 2d Div., 6th 
Corps. There was no vacancy for full Surgeon at 
that time in the command, although his services 
were much needed. On this account, and by the 
urgent request also of the Governor of his State, he 
consented to accept temporarily the position of As- 
sistant Surgeon. However in the event of a vacan- 
cy he was to obtain the position according to the 
examination he had passed. Owing to circumstances, 
to say the least, very discreditable to the parties in 
the case, and who possessed such plasticity of prin- 
ciple and low estimate of honor, this vacancy was 



Surgeon Ai. Waterhouse. 19 

bestowed on another, whose subsequent history 
proved him incapable of discharging its duties. Sur- 
geon Waterhouse suffered this wrong, uncom- 
plainingly, and continued at his post. His services 
in connection with his Regt, and also the 6th Me. 
Infantry, to which he had been temporarily assigned, 
are spoken of with great satisfaction. 

After an examination before the Surgeon's Ex- 
amining Board of the Army of the Potomac, he re- 
ceived the appointment of Surgeon of the 43d 
Regt U. S Colored Troops, March 8th 1864. 
He continued for a time as Surgeon in charge 
of Camp William Penn, Phi la.., and then joined 
this Regiment in the field, Aug. 3d, 1864. In 
connection with this command, on Operating 
Staff, in chrage of Field Hospitals and Acting 
Senior Medical Officer of Brigades and Depart- 
ments, he has been frequently complimented for 
his proficiency and skill in difficult cases of surgery, 
and for his sobriety and correct principles. Chief 
Medical Officer Hall, of the 6th Corps, says: "I 
esteem Surgeon Waterhouse well qualified, in regard 
to moral character, learning and ability, to discharge 
the responsible duties of the position with honor to 
himself and the service." Brigadier General Bates, 
commanding 1st Brig., 4th Div., 9th Corps, tes- 
tifies of him : "For strict and unswerving fidelity 
to duty, for sobriety and high toned morals, for firm 



20 Surgeon Ai. Waterhouse. 

loyalty he has ever won the respect of those who 
knew him." Major General Ferrero, commander 
of the Department of Bermuda Hundred, Va., com- 
pliments him after this manner : "In parting with 
this officer the General Commanding desires .to ex- 
press his regret at parting with an officer so long as- 
sociated with him, and his appreciation of the 
services he has rendered." Chief Medical Officer 
Surgeon Prince, says : "I take pleasure in recom- 
mending Surgeon Ai. Waterhouse as a good Physi- 
cian and Surgeon. The Doctor served as Brigade 
Surgeon in my Div. during the greater part of 
1864, and, as such, displayed professional and exec- 
utive ability of a very high order ; he was always 
noted for his promptness and energy in the discharge 
of his duty." 

The following are actions in which he has parti- 
cipated in the duty of his Department, viz. : Second 
Bull Run, Aug. 30th, 1862; South Mountain, Sept. 
14th, 1862- Antietam, Sept. 17th, 1862; Fredr 
ericksburg, Dec. 13th and 14th, 1862; Salem 
Heights, May 3d and 4th, 1863; Gettysburg, 
July 1st, 2d and 3d, 1863 ; heavy skirmish at 
Fairfield, Pa., July 7th, 1863 : ; heavy skirmish 
at Monterey House and Waynesboro', July 
5th, 1863; Locust Grove, Nov. 24th, 1863 ; Mine, 
Run, Nov. 27th, 1863; Weldon Railroad, Augr 
19th and 20th, 1864; Poplar Grove Church. 



Chaplain J. M. Mickley. 21 

Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864; Hatchie's Run, Oct 
27th and 28th, 1864 ; heavy skirmish on the Bermu- 
da Front, Dec. 1864; capture of Richmond, April 
3d, } 865. 

. CHAPLAIN J. M, MIOKLEY.* 
Chaplain J. M. Mickley is a native of Adams 
county, Pa., near the historic town of Gettysburg, 
and whose family connection have always been 
justly celebrated for loyalty and patriotism. His 
ancestors took a prominent part in the war of 
the Revolution, and also in the war of 1812. Both 
his brother and himself, who are the only sons of a 
patriotic widow, remained in the active field service 
until the close of the Rebellion. He is a regular 
graduate of Franklin and Marshall College, Lan- 
caster, Pa., and of the Theological Seminary at 
Mercersburg, Pa., and a regularly ordained Min- 
ister of the Gospel in the Reformed Church of 
the United States. 

He entered the service Dec. 2d, 1862, as 
Chaplain of the 177th Regt. Pa. Infantry, and 
remained with this command until its muster- 
out. After this he was appointed Chaplain of this 
Regt. In his connection with this command he 
has shown himself fitted for that most delicate 



* Communicated by Colonel Hall commanding 43d United States 
.Colored Troops. 



22 Chaplain J. M. Mickley. 

and difficult position, an Army Chaplain. Month 
after month he has labored most assiduously, by 
means of religious exercises, well conducted schools, 
providing of excellent books and papers for the use 
of the soldier, to contribute to the improvement of 
their mental, moral and social condition; and the 
high esteem he has won for himself, by his talent, 
piety, energy and bravery, from every officer and 
man of this Regiment and also from Superior Offi- 
cers and Commandants, is ample proof of his pecu- 
liar fitness for the position. To him two-thirds of 
the men of this command are indebted for their pro- 
ficiency in reading and writing. Through his disin- 
terested labors, also, thousands of dollars were saved 
by the men, and many families kept from want. His 
care and attention in forwarding these funds were so 
satisfactory in meeting the case. Thousands beside 
the above were by him securely deposited for others. 
During the whole period of his Chaplaincy he ren- 
dered invaluable service in the Camp by his untiring 
and well directed efforts to do good ; and on the 
field, often where the battle raged fiercest, he was 
among the foremost to minister to the wounded and 
dying physical relief and the consolations of religion, 
and by his own acts of heroism to inspire others 
with confidence and to deeds of valor. 

He has actively participated in the following ac- 
tions, viz. : Blackwater ; South Mills ; Union Bridge 3 



Assistant Surgeon A. B. Lowe. 23 

Deep Creek ; heavy skirmish in the Dismal Swamp ; 
heavy skirmish on the Hickory Ground Road., Dis- 
mal Swamp ; Deserted House ; siege of Suffolk .. 
Carrsville ; Hatchie's Run ; heavy skirmish on Ber- 
muda Front ; Farm's Island, near Dutch Gap Ca- 
nal; and capture of Richmond, 

Bvt. Col. PI. S. HALL, 

Comanding Regiment. 

June 20th, 1865. 

ASSISTANT SUEGEON A. B. LOWE. 
Assistant Surgeon A. B. Lowe, a native of 
Sussex county, New Jersey, is a regular graduate of 
the Belview College of Medicine, New York City. 
Upon recommendation of Surgeon's Examining 
Board of New York, before which he passed exami- 
nation, he received the appointment of Assistant 
Surgeon of this Regt, March 8th, 1864. He 
accompanied the First Battalion to the field, and 
was the Medical officer in charge of it during the 1 
battles of the Wilderness Campaign, und until after 
the action before Petersburg, July 30th, 1864. On 
detached service, he was in Amputating Hospital of 
3d Div., 9th Corps • Assistant Surgeon in charge 
of Baptist Church Hospital of Manchester, Va., 
after the occupation of Richmond and Manchester 
by our forces ; and also Medical Officer iri the Post 
Hospital of Brownsville, Texas. He was again 



24 Assistant Surgeon J. L. Chipman. 

Medical Officer in charge of this Regiment on its 
perilous ocean voyage to New York, and until its 
final discharge. In all the duties of his department 
in connection with this command, and the other po- 
sitions to which he had been ordered, he manifested 
intelligence, ability and skill. As an officer and gen- 
tleman he is deserving of great esteem. 

He has been, in the duties of his profession, in the 
following engagements, viz. : Wilderness, May 4th, 
5th, 6th and 7th* 1864; Spottsylvania, May 7th to 
15th, 1864; Tolopotomy Creek, May 19th and 20th, 
1864; North Anna, May 22d and 23d, 1864; Cold 
Harbor, June 1st to 3d, 1864 ; Old Church, June 
10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg, June 18th, 1864; 
Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 1864; Weldori 
Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, 1864; Poplar 
Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864; Hatch- 
ie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864 ; heavy skirmish 
l on the Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864 ; Farra's Island, 
near Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 1865 ; and capture 
of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

ASSISTANT SUEGEON J. L. CHIPMAN. 

Assistant Surgeon J. L. Chipman of this 
Regiment is a native of St. Louis, Mo. After 
relinquishing the practice of his profession in Nova 
Scotia, he appeared before the Surgeon's Examining 
Board of Boston, by which he was examined, and 



Adjutant Ezra S. Dean. 25 

he received the appointment of Assistant Sur- 
geon of U. S. Vols., August 24th, 1861. He 
was immediately assigned to the 39th Regt. Mass. 
Infantry, then in the field. During the greater 
time of his connection with this command he was 
the only Medical Officer in charge of it. Qn ac- 
count of disability, contracted in the line of duty, 
he was honorably discharged May 22nd, 1864. Af- 
ter this he served in United States Hospitals. He 
was appointed Assistant Surgeon of this Regiment, 
June 8th, 1865, and reported to the command, in 
Camp, on the banks of the Rio Grande River, near 
Brownsville, Texas. In character and ability he is 
a worthy officer. 

He has participated in the following actions, viz. : 
heavy skirmish at Funkstown, Md., July 10th, 1863 ; 
Rappahannock Station, Nov., 7th, 1863 ; and Mine 
Run, Nov. 27th, 1863. 

ADJUTANT EZEA S. DEAN, 
Adjutant Ezra S. Dean, of this Regt., is a 
native of Chester, Vt, and the only son of a pa- 
triotic widow. His esteemed grand-father, Darius 
Dean was a soldier of the war of the Revolution. 

He enlisted as a Private, Aug., 2nd, 1862, in 
Co. "H" 10th Vt. Vols, which Regt., was com- 
manded Major W. W. Henry, now Brigadier 
General. He is eminently identified with the 

4 



26 Quarter Master J. N. Daggett. 

history of the "old 10th." on account of his great 
gallantry. He received the appointment of First 
Lieutenant of this Regt., March 8th, 1864, and 
was assigned to Co. U D." In this position he 
was associated with his company in all its duties and 
engagements from the time it entered the field until 
his promotion to the Adjutancy, March 1st, 1865. 
As an officer of ability, bravery and exemplary de- 
portment he is highly esteemed. 

He has been in the following engagements, viz. : 
Wilderness, May 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864: Spott- 
sylvania,May 7th to 15th, 1864 ; Tolopotomy Creek, 
May 19th and 20th, 1864; North Anna, May 22nd 
and 23d, 1864; Cold Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 1864; 
Old Church, June 10th 1864; Siege of Petersburg, 
June 18th, 1864; Mine before Petersburg July 30th, 
1864 ; Weldon Railroad, Aug., 19th and 20th, 
1864 ; Poplar Grove Church, Sept., 29th and 
30th, 1864; Hatchie's Run, Oct., 27th and 28th, 
1864 ; heavy skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 
1864 ; Farra's Island, near Dutch Gap Canal, Jan., 
25th, 18^5; and capture of Richmond, April 3rd, 
1865. 

QUAETEK MASTER J. I. DAGGETT. 

Quarter Master J. N. Daggett, of this Regi- 
ment, is a native of Coventry, Vt. He volun- 
teered as a Private in Co. «K," 10th Vt. Vol 



Quarter Master J. N. Daggett. 27 

Aug., 6th, 1862. For soldierly conduct, effi- 
ciency and bravery he was promoted to Corpo- 
ral in his company, Jan., 1st, 1863. He receiv- 
ed the appointment of First Lieutenant of this 
Regiment March 8th, 1864, and was assigned to Co. 
a C." He was appointed Quarter Master of. the 
Regiment April 2nd, 1864. In this position he en- 
tered the field with the First Battalion. On account 
of his intelligence, ability, faithful discharge of duty, 
and his moral rectitude, he enjoys the confidence of 
all those acquainted with him. 

He has taken part in the following actions, viz. : 
Locust Grove, Nov. 24.th 1863 ; Wilderness, May 4th, 
5th, 6th and 7th, 1864; Spottsylvania, May 7th to 
15th, 1864; Toiopotomy Creek, May 19th and 20th, 
1864 ; North Anna, May 22d and 23d, 1864 5 Cold 
Harbor, June 1st to 3d, 1864; Old Church, June 
10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg, June 18th, 1864 ; 
Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 1864 ; Weldon 
Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, 1864 ; Poplar Grove 
Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864; Hatchie's Run, 
Oct 27th and 28th, 1864; heavy skirmish on the 
Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864 ; Farra's Island, near 
Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 1865 ; and capture of 
Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 



LINE OFFICERS. 



CAPTAIN JESSE WILKINSON. 

This officer, commanding Co. "A." of this Regi- 
ment, is a native of Warwickshire, England, who in 
coming to the United States became a citizen of 
Brooklyn, New York, where he was engaged in the 
silk manufacturing business. 

He volunteered, July 12th, 1862, as a Private i$ 
Co. "F." 18th Regiment Connecticut Infantry. 
Upon the organization of his company he was ap- 
pointed Corporal. In the battle of Winchester. 
June 14th and 1 5th, 1863, he received a wound in 
the hand, and was also taken prisoner. He was 
held by the enemy, in Libby Prison and on Belle 
Island, until July 13th ensuing. During this incar- 
ceration, although the period was comparatively short, 
he was subjected to those inhuman cruelties practiced 
on our brave men. 

He received the appointment of Captain in this 
Regiment, March 8th, 1864, and after reporting at 
Camp William Penn, Philadelphia, assisted in the or- 
ganization of Co. "A." "B." "C." and "D." and was 
assigned to the command of Co* "A." With this 



I 



Capt. Jesse Wilkinson. 29 

he again returned to the active field service in com- 
pany with the First Battalion. He was present with 
it in Grant's stirring campaign of the Wilderness, 
and in all its other actions and duties thereafter 
He received a bayonet wound in his left arm while 
gallantly leading his company in the charge before 
Petersburg, July 30th, 1864, and when Colonel Hall, 
being severely wounded, was borne from the field, 
he took command of the Regiment. This command 
he retained until relieved by Major Bumstead, who 
reported Aug. 3rd, 1864. He has been acting 
Field Officer on a number of occasions; Judge Ad- 
vocate of General Court Martial at Headquarters of 
the 2nd Brig., 4lh Div. of the 9th Corps ; and mem- 
ber of General Court Martial at Headquarters 
of the 1st Brig. 3rd Div. of the same Corps. His 
company, which has always preserved an excel- 
lent name for good discipline, efficiency and bravery 
in action, presents the highest compliment that can 
be bestowed upon this worthy commander. 

He has taken part in the following engagements, 
viz. : heavy skirmish at Winchester, Ya., June 13th, 
1863; Winchester, June 14th and 15th, 1863; 
Wilderness, May 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864 ; Spott- 
sylvania May 7th to 15th, 1864; Tolopotomy Creek, 
May 19th aud 20th, 1864; North Anna, May 22nd, 
and 23d, 1864; Cold Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 1864; 
Old Church, June 10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg, 



30 Lieuts. Hayman and Sculley. 

June 18lh, 1864; Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 
1864; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and20th, 1864; 
Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864 ; 
Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864 ; heavy 
skirmish on the Bermuda Front, in Dec. 1864 ; 
Farm's Island at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 
1865; and capture of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

"FIRST LIEUT. JAMES T, HAYMAN* 
First Lieutenant James T. Hayman of Co. "A." 
was a native of England. It is known in the history 
of this war that he was associated with the 4th N. Y. 
Heavy Artillery, in which he had first enlisted as a 
Private. He received the appointment of First 
Lieutenant of this Regt. May 15th, 1864, and was 
assigned to Co. "A." In the battle of the Mine 
before Petersburg, July 30th, 1864, he was killed 
by a ball which penetrated his skull. 

In the absence of any particulars of his military 
history, we are able to furnish only this imperfect 
sketch. He is however spoken of as an officer of 
ability and bravery, and who has given the full 
measure of devotion to his adopted country. 

FIRST LIEUT. JAMES SCULLEY, 
First Lieutenant James Sculley of Co. "A," is 
a native of New York City, and the only son of a pa- 



*For history of 1st Lieut. Jas. O'Brien, see history of Capt. of Co. C. 



First. Lieut. James Sculley. 31 

triotic widow who departed this life before the termi- 
nation of the rebellion, and who, therefore, could 
not extend to him on his return the happy welcome. 
She died during his absence in the field. 

He volunteered Aug., 1861, as a Private in Co. 
"K" 10th N. Y. Infantry, and was promoted to Cor- 
poral in his Co. May 1862, for good discipline and 
efficiency. He was wounded in left hand, by which 
he lost one finger of hand, and in left hip at the bat- 
tle of Chancelorsville, May 3d, 1863, where he was 
also particularly mentioned for his great bravery. 
He received the appointment of Second Lieuten- 
ant of this Regt., March 7th, 1864, and was assign- 
ed to Co. "A." He was again severely wounded in 
the right leg at the battle of the Mine before Peters- 
burg, July 30th, 1864, and had his sword broken in 
his hand by a shot from the enemy as he was gal- 
lantly pressing forward in the charge. For his dis- 
tinguished service and bravery in that action he 
received the promotion to First Lieutenant of the 
same Co. Aug. 9th, 1864. He has served on de- 
tached service at Camp Casey, Va. and on Military 
Court Martial at Harrisburg, Pa. His ability and 
bravery as an officer are well attested. 

The following are engagements in which he has 
participated, viz. : Gaines' Hill June, 27th, 1862; 
Malvern Hill, June 30th, 1862 ; Second Bull Run, 
Aug. 30th, 1862; Antietam, Sept. 17th, 1862; heavy 



32 



Second Lieut. James Roantree, 



skirmish towards Fredericksburg, Oct , 1862; Fred- 
ericksburg, Dec. 13th and 14th, 1862; Chancelors- 
ville. May 3d and 4th, 1863 ; Wilderness, May 4th 
5th, 6th and 7th, 1864; Spottsylvania, May 7th to 
15th, 1864 ; Tolopotomy Creek, May 19th and 20th, 
1864; North Anna, May 22nd and 23d, 1864 ; Cold 
Harbor, June 1st to 3d, 1864; Old Church, June 
10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg, June 18th, 1864; 
Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 1864; Weldon 
Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, 1864 ; Poplar Grove 
Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864; HatctnVs Run, 
Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864; heavy skirmish on the 
Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864 ; Farm's Island, near 
Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 1863; and capture of 
Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

SECOND LIEUT, JAMES EOANTEEE. 

Second Lieutenant James Roantree, assigned 
to Co. A. to occupy a vacancy occasioned by promo- 
tion of Second Lieut. Sculiev, was a native of Eng- 
land, who had become a citizen of Clockville, N. Y. 
It is known that he was a Corporal associated with 
the 141st N. Y. Vols., and that he had participated 
in a number of engagements [ n connection with that 
command. At the battle of Gettysburg, July 1st, 
2d and 3d, 1863, he was severely wounded in the 
foot. 

He received the appointment of Second Lieuten- 



Second Lieut. Charles H. Kimball 



33 



ant of this Regt., Sept. 25th, 1864. In the battle 
of Hatchie-s Run, Oct 27th and 28th, 1864, he was 
killed by a shot in the head from the enemy. He 
was highly spoken of, as an officer of fine ability and 
most excellent moral character, who sealed his devo- 
tion to his adopted country with his life. 

SECOND LIEUT. CHAELES H, KIMBALL. 

Second Lieutenant Charles H. Kimball as- 
signed to Co. A., on account of vacancy by death of 
Second Lieut. James Roantree, is a native of Carth- 
age, N. Y., whose grand-father, Richard Kimball, was 
a soldier of the war of 1812. He received the ap- 
pointment of Second Lieutenant in this Regt., Nov. 
9th, 1864, and was assigned to Co. A. He was 
constantly on duty with the command from the date 
of his reporting to its final discharge from service, 
and was greatly esteemed for his sobriety and exem- 
plary conduct. 

He has taken part in the following actions, viz. : 
heavy skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864; Far- 
m's Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 1865 ; 
and capture of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

CAPTAIN JOHN D. BEOWN. 
Captain John D. Brown, commanding Co. B.,is 
a native of Uxbridge, Mass. His grand-father was 
the boy-patriot of the Revolution, who entered the 



34 Capt. John D. Brown. 

ranks fighting for Independence when only fifteen 
years of age, and who obtained for himself a bright 
record. The Captain entered the United States ser- 
vice first, Aug. 8th, 1862, as a volunteer Private in 
Co. D., 18th Conn. Infantry. He received the ap- 
pointment of Captain in this Regt., March 8th, 1862, 
and was assigned to the command of Co. B. His 
service with this command extends throughout 
Grant's Wilderness campaign of 1864, and in the 
subsequent actions, in which the Regt., was engaged 
to the close of the war. 

At the time of the terrible battle of the Mine be- 
fore Petersburg, July 30th, 1864, this officer was 
entirely unfit for duty by reason of severe illness, 
but notwithstanding this indisposition he most patri- 
otically declined remaining in the Hospital, and gal- 
lantly led his Co. in the Charge on that day. He 
there received a wound in the breast. His compa- 
ny, which was always specially complimented for its 
great bravery in action, was inspired to do noble 
deeds by the example of this able and patriotic com- 
mander. 

He has shared in the following battles ; viz. : 
Winchester, June 14th and 15th, 1863; Wilder- 
ness, May 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864 ; Spottsyl- 
vania May 7th to 15th, 1864 ; Tolopotomy Creek, 
May 19th and 20th, 1864 5 North Anna, May 22nd, 
and 23rd, 1864 ; Cold Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 1864 ; 



First Lieut. L. H. Parkhurst. 35 

Old Church, June 10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg, 
June 18th, 1864; Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 
1864; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 3 9th and 20th, 1864; 
Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864 ; 
Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864 ; heavy 
skirmish on the Bermuda Front, in Dec. 1864 ; 
Farra's Island at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 
1865 ; and capture of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

FIRST LIEUT s L. H. PABKHUBST. 

First. Lieutenant L. H. Parkhurst of Co. B., 
is a native of Hammonton, N. J. He volunteered 
Aug. 1862, as a Private in Co, I, 24th N. J. Infant- 
ry, and received a severe wound in the right shoul- 
der at the battle of Fredericksburg, Dec. 13th and 
14th, 1862. His history in connection with the 24th 
N. J., is one of most worthy distinction. He obtain- 
ed the appointment of First Lieutenant of this 
Regt. March 8th, 1864, and was assigned to Co. B. 
He has also served a considerable time as Com- 
manding Officer of Co. C. His intrepidity and gal- 
lantry in each and every action in which he has 
been engaged, have won for him a deserving meed 
of praise and thanks. 

He has participated in the following actions, viz. : 
Fredericksburg, Va , Dec. 13th and 14th 1862; 
Chancelorsvilie, May 3d and 4th, 1864; Wilder- 
ness, May 4th, 5 th, 6th and 7th, 1864: Spottsyl- 



36* Lieuts. Steele and Wick ware. 

vania, May 7th to 15th, 1864 ; Tolopotomy Creek, 
May 19th and 20th, 1864; North Anna, May 22nd 
and 23rd, 1864 5 Gold Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 1864; 
Old Church, June 10th 1864; Siege of Petersburg, 
June 18th, 1864; Mine before Petersburg July 30th, 
1864; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, 
1864 ; Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 
30th, 1864 ; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 
1864 ; heavy skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 
1864 ; Farm's Island, near Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 
25th, 18^5; and capture of Richmond, April 3rd, 
1865. 

SECOND LIEUT, J. W. STEELE. 

Second Lieutenant J. W. Steele, of Co. B., is 
a citizen of Kansas. He was appointed Second 
Lieutenant in this command, March 16th, 1864. 
He received a severe wound in the left shoulder at 
the battle of the Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 
1864, and for his gallant service in that engagement 
promoted to First Lieutenant, and appointed Ad- 
jutant of the Regiment Oct. 27th, 1864. He was 
honorably discharged upon tender and acceptance 
of his resignation, Feb., 1865. 

SECOND LIEUT, CHARLES WICKWAEE. 
Second Lieutenant Charles Wickware, as- 
signed to Co. B., to fill the vacancy occasioned by 



37 



the promotion of Second Lieut. Steele, is a native 
of Colchester, Vt, and the son of a widow. His 
great-grand father, Joseph Wick-ware, late of Ben- 
nington, Vt, served with great honor to himself and 
the country in the struggle of 1776, for Independence. 
The Lieut, first volunteered as a Private, March 
26th, 1862, in Co. I. 6th Vt. Infantry. At the battle 
of Savage Station, June 29th, 1862, he was severely 
wounded by a ball entering his back, close to the 
left side, and passing out at the right side, and was 
at the same time taken prisoner. As is very reason- 
able to expect, his dangerous wound became aggra- 
vated greatly by the cruel treatrment of a Libby 
Prison life. He was fortunately paroled, July 22nd, 
before death ensued, and immediately forwarded to 
West Philadelphia Hospital. In the battle of the 
Wilderness, May 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864, he was 
severely wounded (second day) in the left arm, on 
account of which it became necessary to amputate 
his arm above the elbow. He was discharged by 
reason of this wound Feb., 6th, 1865. He afterwards 
received the appointment of Second Lieutenant 
in this Regt. In connection with this command, as 
well as in his previous service, he has manifested un- 
doubted ability and patriotism. His empty sleeve, 
also, is a mark of devotion. 

He has shared in the following engagements, viz :• 
Lee's Mill, Va., April Kith, 1862 ; Williamsburg, 



38 Capt. James O'Brien. 

May, 5th, 1862; Golden's Farm, June 28th, 1862; 
Savage Station, June 29th, 1862; second Fredericks- 
burg and Salem Heights, May 3d and 4th, 1863; 
heavy skirmish at Franklin Crossing, June 5th and 
6th, 1863; Gettysburg, Pa., July 1st, 2d and 3rd, 
1863; heavy skirmish at Funkstown, Md., July 10th, 
1863; heavy skirmish at Gainesville, Oct, 1863 ;- 
Locust Grove, Nov. 24th, 1863 ; Wilderness, May 
4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864 ; and capture of Rich- 
mond, April 3d, 1865. 

CAPT. JAMES O'BEIEN. 
Captain James O'Brien, assigned to command of 
Co. C, to occupy the vacancy made by the promo- 
tion of Capt. Bates to Maj. of 45th U. S. C. T., is a 
native of Glenlough, Ireland, and the son of a wid- 
ow. Upon coming to this country he became a citi- 
zen of Maulius, N. Y. In the early stage of the war 
he volunteered as a Private in Co. I, 61st N. Y. 
Infantry. At the battle of Fair Oaks, June 1st, 
1862, he was severely wounded in the arm, but con- 
tinued heroically on the field to the close of the ac- 
tion. At the battle of Charles City Cross Roadg^ 
June 30th, 1862, he received a severe wound pene- 
trating the left, shoulder ; and having been left on the 
field, helpless and weak by loss of blood, he was ta- 
ken prisoner. His wound became alarmingly dan- 
gerous, by reason of his cruel imprisonment in Libby 



Capt. James O'Brien. 39 

Prison. He was paroled, June 31st, and removed to 
Satterlee Hospital, Phila. Little hope was enter- 
tained about his recovery. "While yet in the Hospi- 
tal, and after he had slightly improved, he resumed 
his studies with a view to a collegiate course he had 
before contemplated. The way also appeared .open 
for the fulfilment of his purpose in this particular, as 
the necessity of his discharge was decided upon, 
lie afterwards, however, concluded if possible to 
return to the field. Much praise is due this maimed 
soldier for his patriotic determination. Before leav- 
ing the Hospital he obtained the promotion to Sec- 
ond Lieutenant of his Co. This honor, won by so 
many acts of distinguished bravery, he was unable to 
accept at that time, on account of his severe disabil- 
ity. 

He was appointed First Lieutenant of this 
Regt, March 8th, 1864, and assigned to Co. A. 
He received the appointment of Adjutant of this 
command, April 1st, 1864, and in this position he ac- 
companied it to the front in the army of the Potomac. 
In the terrible battle of the Mine before Petersburg, 
July 30th, 1864, and the charge by this Regt, he re- 
ceived another severe wound in the left shoulder. 
For his great gallantry in this action he is particu- 
larly mentioned by both his Regimental and Brigade 
Commanders, and for which, also, he was promoted 
to Captain by the President of the United States. 



40 



He was afterwards detailed as Post Adjutant and 
Recruiting Officer for the North Eastern District of 
Va., at Camp Casey. He remained there until by- 
order the Recruiting Rendezvous was discontinued, 
when he reported to the Regt, then pn the Front 
Line before Richmond, and was assigned to the 
command of Co. C. 

He has served as A. A. A. G. at Headquarters of 
the 3d Brig. 1st Div. 25th Corps, and also at same 
Headquarters, as Acting Asst. Inspector General, up 
to date of order returning this Regt. for final muster- 
out and discharge. This officer remained in. the 
active field service to the close of the war, although 
continuing to suffer very much by reason of his 
wounds, which were but partially healed and very 
painful. He has proved himself as brave as he is 
efficient. 

The following are engagements in which he has 
participated, viz. : heavy skirmish at Rappahannock 
Bridge, March, 1862; Siege of Yorktown, May, 
1862; Williamsburg, May 5th, 1864; Fair Oaks, 
June 1st, 1862; Peach Orchard, June 28th, 1862; 
Savage* Station, June 29th, 1862; Charles City 
Cross Roads, June 30th, 1862; Wilderness, May 
4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864 ; Spottsylvania, May 7th to 
15th, 1864; Tolopotomy Creek, May 19th and 20th, 
1864; North Anna, May 22d and* 23d, 1864 ; Cold 
Harbor, June 1st to 3d, 1864 ; Old Church, June 



First Lieut. W. F. Palmer. 41 

10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg, June LSth, 1864; 
Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 1864; capture 
of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

FIEST LIEUT, W. E. PALMEE, 

First Lieut. W. E. Palmer, who was assigned to 
Co. C, to occupy a vacancy made by the promotion 
of First Lieut. Daggett to Quarter Master of the 
Regiment, is a native of Utica, N. Y., and the only 
son of a widow. His grand-father, Elias Palmer, 
held the position of Sergeant in the war of the Revo- 
lution. He volunteered Aug. 2nd, 1862 as a Private 
in Co. G, 146th N. Y. Infantry. In connection with 
this command he displayed the ability and bravery 
of a good soldier. He received the appointment of 
First Lieutenant of this Regiment. July 21st, 1864. 
At the battle of Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 
1864, he was wounded in the right arm. He has 
served on detached service as a member of General 
Court Martial at Headquarter of 1st Div. 25th 
Corps. As an officer he is esteemed by all ac- 
quainted with him. 

He has taken part in the following actions, viz. : 
Fredericksburg, Dec. 13th and 14th, 1862 ; Chan- 
celorsville, May 3d and 4th, 1863 ; Gettysburg, July 
2nd and 3rd, 1S63 ; heavy skirmish at Williamsport, 
July 9th, 1863 ; skirmish near Ellicott's Mills, July 
7th, 1864; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1S64 ; 

6 



42 LlEUTS. SlLVERWOOD AND WhEATLEY. 

heavy skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec., 1864; 
Farm's Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 
1865 ; and capture of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

SECOND LIEUT. W. F. SlLVERWOOD. 

Second Lieutenant W. F. Silverwood, of Co. 
C, was appointed to this rank March 7th, 1864. 
This brave officer commanded his Company in the 
storming of the Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 
1864, and was severely wounded in his left arm and 
side. He was honorably discharged, Dec. 5th, 1864, 
by reason of his wounds, received in the above men- 
tiond action. 

SECOND LIEUT. J. WHEATLEY. 

Second Lieut. J. Wheatley, who was assigned to 
Co. C, to fill a vacancv bv discharge of Second Lieu- 
tenant Silverwood, is a native of Syracuse, N. Y., 
and the son of a widow. He enlisted, Aug. 26th, 
1861, as a Bugler, in Co. I, 3d N. Y. Cav., and re- 
ceived a severe wound on his left thigh at the Siege 
of Little Washington, July 16th, 1863. His name 
is associated with all that is truly distinguished in 
his services with this Cavalry. He received the ap- 
pointment of Second Lieutenant of this Regiment, 
Dec. 31st, 1864. Besides his duties in this Compa- 
ny, he commanded Co. E, 19th U.S. C. T and was 



Capt. B. B. Blackman; 43 

in this command, April 3d, 1865, at the capture of 
Richmond. 

He has participated in the following engagements, 
viz.: Ball's Bluff, 1361; Winchester, May 25th, 
1862; Little Washington, N. C., June 1863; Kingston; 
White Hall, Tarborough, Robb's Mills, Mine, be- 
fore Petersburg, July 30th, 1864 ; skirmish on Wil- 
son's Raid ; skirmish around Richmond, and capture 
of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

CAPT. B. B. BLACKMAN. 
Capt. B. B. Blackman, commander of Co. D, is 
a native of Norwich, Conn. He volunteered July 
26th, 1862, as a Private in Co. C, 18th Conn. In- 
fantry. While gallantly assaulting the enemies po- 
sition in the action of Winchester, Va., June 14th 
and 15th, 1863, he was taken prisoner. In his con- 
finement in Libby Prison and on Belle Isle, he shared 
the usual Confederate fare and inhuman treatment • 
visited upon our brave men by that self-styled chivalry 
of the South. He received the appointment of Cap- 
tain of this Regiment, March 8th, 1864, and was as- 
signed to the command of Co. D. In this capacity 
he returned to the field with his Company, and was 
present in the campaign of 1864 in the Wilderness. 
He has served as Recorder of Military Commission 
at Headquarters 3d Div. 9th Corps in 1864; member 
of General Court Martial at Headquarters 1st Div, 



44 First Lieut. J. C. Hankey. 

25th Corps March, 1865; and member of Military 
Commission for Western District of Texas, con- 
vened at Brownsville, Texas, and which occupied 
the place of Civil Court, Aug. and Sept., 1865 f 
This officer posseses a fine order of talent, and the 
enconiums that have been pronounced in favor of 
his Company are also true compliments to its worthy 
commander. 

He has been in the following engagements, viz. : 
Winchester, June 14th and 15th, 1863; Wilder- 
ness, May 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864 ; Spottsyl- 
vania, May 7th to 15th, 1864; Tolopotomy Creek, 
May 19th and 20th, 1864; North Anna, May 22nd, 
and 23rd, 1864; Cold Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 1864; 
Old Church, June 10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg- 
June 18th, 1864; Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 
1864; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, 1864: 
Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864 ; 
• Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864 ; heavy 
skirmish on the Bermuda Front, in Dec. 1864 ; 
Farm's Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 
1865; and capture of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

FIRST. LIEUT, J. 0. HANKEY * 

First Lieut. J. C. Hankey, assigned to Co. D, is 
a native of Gettysburg, Pa., and a regular graduate 
of Pennsylvania College, situated at that place. His 



* For history of First. Lieut. Ezra S. Dean, see history of Adju- 
tant Deau of this RegimeuL 



45 



grand-father was a soldier who greatly distinguished 
himself in the war of 1812. The Lieutenant volun- 
teered Aug. 20th, 1S62 as a Private in Co. G, 
138th Pa. Infantry. In Nov., 1862, for good disci- 
pline and efficiency he was promoted to Corporal 
in his Co. He w r as appointed Acting Hospital Stew- 
ard of his Regiment, July 2d, 1863, and continued 
in the duties of this office until honorably discharged 
in order to accept his appointment of Second Lieu- 
tenant in this Regiment, which dates March 7th, 
1864. In the organization of the 138th Pa. Regt. 
he always manifested, in an eminent degree, the gal- 
lantry and high toned principles of a soldier. After 
serving a while with distinction in this Regiment he 
became Ambulance Officer of the 2d Brig. 4th Div. 
9th Corps, and also Chief of Ambulance and Acting 
Assistant Quarter Master of the 1st Div. 25th, Corps. 
During the expedition of this Corps from City Point, 
Va., to Texas, he was the Senior Commanding Offi- 
cer of the vessel "Glaucus." He received the ap- 
pointment of First Lieutenant of this Regiment, 
May 30th. 1865, and by special written request of the 
Commanding Officer he was relieved from his other 
duties in order to report to this command. This 
officer has discharged the duties of his respective 
positions with so much executive ability and faithful- 
ness as to receive great praise from his superiors and 
the Department. 



46 



Capt. Joseph Forbes. 



He has been in the following actions, viz. : Skir- 
mish at Williamsport, July 9th, 1863 ; skirmish at 
Wappings Heights, July, 1863 ; skirmish at Brandy 
Station, Nov. 8th, 1863; Locust G rove, Nov. 24th, 
1863; Mine Run, Nov. 27th, 1863; Wilderness, 
May 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864; Spottsylvania, 
May 7th to 15th, 1864; Tolopotomy Creek, May, 
19th and 20th, 1864 ; North Anna, May 22nd 
and 23rd, 1864 ; Cold Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 1864; 
Old Church, June 10th 1864; Siege of Petersburg, 
June 18th, 1864; Mine before Petersburg July 30th, 
1864 ; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, 
1864 ; Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 
30th, 1864 ; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 
1864; heavy skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 
1864; Farra's Island, near Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 
25th, 1865; and capture of Richmond, April 3rd, 
1865. 

CAPT. JOSEPH F0EBES. 
Capt. Joseph Forbes, commanding Co. E, is a 
native of the City of New York. His grand-father 
actively participated in the war of 1812, and his 
brother Thomas H. Forbes was a soldier in the 1st 
N. Y. Vols, in this war. The Captain was, during a 
period of four years previous to the rebellion, a mem- 
ber of the Engineer Corps of the 71st N. Y. Nation- 
al Guards. This entire Regiment very promptly 



Capt. Joseph Forbes. 47 

volunteered its services to the Government, the day- 
after the fire upon Fort Sumpter, and was immedi- 
ately accepted. It was the sixth to arrive in Wash- 
ington for the defence of the Capitol. This loyal 
troop on its march to that point, passed through dis- 
affected Maryland, uncheered and unprovided. • Dis- 
loyalists charged them Twelve Hundred Dollars for 
Two Carts, with which to transport necessary bag- 
bage, and these even then failed to answer the pur- 
pose. This command with which the Captain was 
connected, patriotically volunteered to remain in ser- 
vice for the battle of Bull Run, although its term had 
expired. It opened the fight of that day, and made 
the brilliant and successful charge upon an entire 
Brigade of the enemy, composed of Alabama Regi- 
ments. In the latter campaign, in which this Regi- 
ment volunteered its services again, Capt. Forbes 
returned as Captain commanding Co. B. He re- 
ceived the appointment of Captain in this Regiment 
(43d U. S. C. T.) March 30th, 1864. He was wound- 
ed in the hand at the battle of Hatchie's Run, Oct 
27th and 28th, 1864. This officer, who has seen 
much service and greatly distinguished himself in 
connection with the early organization of the 71st 
N. Y., and also with this Regiment, deserves special 
compliments for his ability and bravery, and the ex- 
cellent military standard, to which he brought his 
command. His Company was one among the first 



48 Capt. Joseph Forbes. 

in neatness, discipline and efficiency. A circular da- 
ted Headquarters 3d Brig. 1st Div. 25th Corps, Feb. 
5th, 1865, issued by order of the Brigade Comman- 
der, Brig. Gen. H. G. Thomas, who reports the 
result of an Inspection of Quarters of the different 
Regiments of his Brigade, states : "Capt. Forbes 
and his Company deserve particular notice. Their 
quarters are far superior in construction, neatness 
and ornament, to those of any of the Companies 
in this Brigade." As a token of the high apprecia- 
tion of this officer, by his Company, they were 
pleased to present him with the 25th Corps Badge 
and pin, pure gold and finely executed, with name 
and rank of their commander engraved on the Badge 
and on the Pin, a list of the engagements in which 
he led them, the whole beautifully prefaced by the 
following inscription : "Presented to Capt. Forbes 
Co. E, 43d U. S. C. T., by his Company for his 
bravery and impartiality in command.'" This officer, 
also, stands recommended for Captaincy in the Reg- 
ular Service, having been so recommended by the 
Examining Board for officers of the Regular army, 
appointed in the field by order of the War Depart- 
ment. 

He has taken part in the following actions, viz. : 
skirmish with Shore Battery at Acquia Creek, June 
1861 ; Bull Run, June 21st, 1861 5 Wilderness, May 
4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864 ; Spottsylvania, May 7th to 



First Lieut.. G. W. Williams. 49 

15th, 1864; Tolopotomy Creek, May 19th and 20th, 
1864; North Anna, May 22nd and 23rd, 1864 ; Cold 
Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 1864 ; Old Church, June 
10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg, June 18th, 1864; 
Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, 1864; Poplar 
Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 1884 ; Hatchie's 
Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864 ; skirmish on Bermu- 
da Front, Dec, 1864; Farra's Island, at Dutch Gap 
Canal, Jan. 25th, 1865 ; and capture of Richmond, 
April 3rd, 1865. 

FIEST LIEUT. GEOEGfi W. WILLIAMS. 
First Lieutenant George W. Williams of Co. 
E. This officer was captured by the enemy, in the 
charge by our forces at the battle of the Mine before 
Petersburg, July 30th, 1864. He finally escaped 
from prison, in company with a few others. His 
companions were all re-taken, except one who un 
fortunately drowned. He v alone, succeeded, after a 
long time eluding search, and suffering great hardships 
in the enemy's country in his return to our lines. 
He continued in the service to the close of the re- 
bellion, and was honorably discharged upon accep- 
tance of resignation by order of the War Department, 
June 17th, 1865. He was a brave and efficient 
officer. 



50 



HBST LIEUT. DANIEL J. HQGAN. 

First Lieutenant Daniel J. Hogan, Co. E, is 
a native of New York City, and the only son of a 
widow. He volunteered, May 18th, 1863, as a Pri- 
vate in the 5th Independent New Jersey Battery, 
and served with distinction in this organization until 
his appointment to Second Lieutenant of this 
Regiment, which dates April 13th, 1864. After re- 
porting for duty he served in Co. A, C, and H. He 
was promoted to First Lieutenant, Aug. 18th, 
1865, and assigned to Co. E, to fill the vacancy 
occasioned by the resignation of First Lieut. Wil- 
liams; This promotion was well merited, as his 
ability, services and moral character are alike hon- 
orable to himself and to the country 

He has shared in the following engagements, viz. : 
Gettysburg, July 1st, 2d and 3d, 1863; Wilderness, 
May 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864; Spottsylvania, 
May 7th to 15th, 1864; Tolopotomy Creek, May, 
19th and 20th, 1864 ; North Anna, May 22nd 
and 23rd, 1864 ; Cold Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 1864 f 
Old Church, June 10th 1864; Siege of Petersburg, 
June 18th, 1864; Mine before Petersburg July 30th, 
1864 ; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, 
1864 ; Poplar Grove Church, Sept 29th and 
30th, 1864 ; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 
1864 ; heavy skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 
1864; Farra's Island, near Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 



Second Lieut. S. P. Hand. 51 

25th, 1865; and capture of Richmond, April 3rd, 
1865. 

SECOND LIEUT. SHERMAN P, HAND. 

Second Lieutenant Sherman P. Hand of Co. 
E. This officer was taken prisoner by the enemy 
at the battle of the Mine before Petersburg, July 
30th, 1864. He was honorably discharged from the 
service of the United Stales, upon acceptance of res- 
ignation by order of the War Department, May 4th, 
18,65.. 

CAPT. HORACE F, BURR, 
Captain Horace F. Burr, commander of Co. F, 
is a native of Charlestown, Mass. Previous to en- 
tering the United States Army, he was a seaman, 
and had passed two years at sea in the ship "Pan- 
ther," commanded by Capt. Garnett. He volun- 
teered Sept. 9th, 1862, as a Private m Co. E, 47th 
Mass. Infantry. His Regiment occupied the 
defences of New Orleans after the capture of the 
city. He received the appointment of Captain of 
this Regiment, April 13th, 1864, and was assigned 
to the command of Co. F. He was present with 
his Company in all its duties and engagemants of an 
active field service from the commencement of 
Grant's Wilderness Campaign to the close of the 
war and the final discharge of this Regiment. He 



V 



52 Capt. Burr and Lieut Shedd. 

also served as a member of General Court Martial, 
at Headquarters 1st Brig. 4th Div. 9th Corps. This 
officer, whose Company won true distinction on ac- 
count of good discipline, excellent deportment and 
bravery in action, is greatly esteemed. 

He has taken part in the following actions, viz. : 
Wilderness, May 5th, 6th and 7th, 1864 ; Spottsyl- 
vania, May 7th to 15th, 1864; Tolopotomy Creek, 
May 19th and. 20th, 1864; North Anna, May 22nd, 
and 23rd, 1864; Cold Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 1864 ; 
Old Church, June 10th, 1864; Siege of Petersburg, 
June 18lh, 1864; Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 
1864; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, 1864 ; 
Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864; 
Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864 ; heavy- 
skirmish on the Bermuda Front, in Dec. 1864 - y 
Farm's Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 
1865 ; and capture of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

FIBST LIEUT. A, A. SHEDD. 
First Lieutenant A. A. Shedd, of Co. F, is a 
native of Lowel, Mass. His ancestors participated 
actively in the wars of the Revolution and of 1812; 
and his brother, who was associated with him in the 
same command during this struggle, continued in 
the service, as a Veteran, to its close. The Lieu- 
tenant volunteered Aug. 7th, 1862, in Co. B, 39th 
Mass. Infantry, and was promoted to Corporal of 



FiRSf Lieut. A. A. Shedd. 53 

his Company on the Color Guard, July. 1863. He 
received the appointment of First Lieutenant of 
this Regiment, April 2d, 1864. and was assigned to 
Co. F, with which he returned to the field. He is 
highly spoken of for his great gallantry at the battle 
of HatclnVs Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864, in 
which he was engaged as Aid, on the staff of Brier. 
Gen. H. G. Thomas. In this action his horse was 
shot from under him. This officer has served as 
Acting Assistant Inspector General of 1st Brig, and 
2nd Brig. 4th Div. 9th Corps : as A. A. D. C. on the 
General's staff 3d Brio-. 1st Div. 25th Corns, and 
Acting Ordinance Officer 1st Div. 25th Corps. He 
discharged the duty of these positions with entire sat- 
isfaction, and is much esteemed for his executive 
ability and true gentlemanly character. 

He has been in the following actions, viz. : Skir- 
mish on the Rapidan, Oct., 1863: Mine Run, Xov. 
27th, 1863: Wilderness, May 4th to 7th, 1864; 
Spottsylvania, May 7th to 15th, 1864; Tolopotomy 
Creek, May 19th and 20th, 1S64; North Anna, May 
22nd and 23rd, 1864; Cold Harbor, June 1st to 3rd, 
1864; Old Church. June 10th, 1864; Siege of Pe- 
tersburg, June LSth, 1864 ; Mine before Petersburg, 
July 30th, 1864; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 
20th, 1864 ; Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 
30th, 1864 ; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th. 1864 ; 
heavy skirmish on Bermuda Front. Dec, 1864; 



54 Capt. A. D. Wright. 

Farm's Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 
and capture of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

CAPT. A. D. WEIGHT,* 
Capt. A* D. Wright, commander of Co. G, is a 
native of Elkland, Tioga county, Pa., and whose 
grand-father was a soldier of the war of 1812, He 
enlisted, Aug. 8th, 1862, as a Private in Co. A, 
149th Pa. Vols. For bravery he was promoted to 
Sergeant in his Co. He is particularly mentioned, 
in connection with this organization, for his bravery 
and distinguished services. He was appointed Cap- 
tain in this Regt, April 13th, 1864, and assigned to. 
the command of Co. G. At the battle of the Mine 
before Petersburg, July 30th, 1864, he received a 
severe wound in his right arm above the elbow. He 
was greatly complimented for his gallantry in this 
action, in which he captured, with his own hands, a, 
Rebel Flag, and brought it successfully from the 
field. The Brigade Commander is pleased to refer 
to this capture in his report of the Regiment. Al- 
though greatly debilitated by reason of his. wound, 
and his arm yet in a sling, he bravely led his Com- 
pany in the battle of Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 
28th ensuing. He served in command of the Pro- 
vost Guards of Manchester, Va., after the capture 



* For history of Second Lieut. Martin L. Wat-sou, ^ee history of First 
Lieut. Wassou of Co. G. 



Lieuts. Sawyer and Wasson. 55 

of Richmond and the occupation of Manchester by 
the Union forces. This officer, whose command 
has always preserved a good name for discipline and 
gallantry, is known for his fine ability, bravery and 
moral rectitude, 

He has been in the' following engagements, .viz. : 
•skirmish at Pollock's Mills, April, 1863; Chancel- 
orsville, May 3rd and 4th, 1863; Gettysburg, July 
2nd and 3rd, 1863 ; heavy skirmish at Funkstown, 
Md., July 10th; 1863 ; Old Church, June 10th, 1864 ; 
Siege of Petersbuag, June 18th, 1864; Mine before 
Petersburg, July 30th, 1864 ; Weldon Railroad, Aug, 
19th and 20th, 1864; Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 
29th and 30th, 1864; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 
28 th, 1 864 ; skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec., 1864 ; 
Farm's Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 1865 ; 
and capture of Richmond, April 3rd, 1865. 

FIEST LIEUT. M. W. SAWYER. 
First Lieut. M. W. Sawyer, of Co. G, is a native 
of the State of Vermont. This officer was honora- 
bly discharged, March 10th, 1865, by order of the 
War Department, on account of wounds received in 
the battle of Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864. 

FIEST LIEUT. MARTIN WASSON. 
First Lieut. Martin L. Wasson, who was as- 
signed to Co. G, to fill a vacancy made by discharge 



56 Second Lieut. R. W. Armstrong. 

of First Lieutenant Sawyer, is a native of Alabama, 
N. Y. He volunteered as a Private, in Co. H, 8th 
N. Y. heavy Artillery, Aug. 8th, 1862. He contin- 
ued in this organization until his appointment of 
Second Lieutenant in this Regiment, (43d U. S. C. 
T.) March 7th, 1864, when he was assigned to Co. 

F. He was promoted to First Lieutenant, May. 
30th, 1865, for gallant services, and assigned to Co. 

G. He has shared in all the duties of this com- 
mand from its first entrance to the field, and proved 
himself able and brave. 

The following are engagements in which he has 
participated, viz. : Harpers Ferry ; Wilderness, May 
4th to 7th, 1864; Spottsylvania, May 7th to 15th, 
1864; Tolopotomy Creek, May 19th and 20th, 1864; 
North Anna, May 22nd and 23rd, 1864; Cold Harbor, 
June 1st to 3d, 1864; Old Church, June 10th, 1864; 
Siege of Petersburg, June, 1864 ; Mine before 
Petersburg, July 30th 1864; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 
19th and 20th, 1864; Poplar Grove Church, Sept 
29th and 30th, 1864 ; Hatchie's Run, Oct 27th and 
28th, 1864 ; skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864; 
Farra's Island at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 
186S) ; and capture of Richmond, April 3d, 1865. 

SECOND LIEUT. BOBEET W. AEMSTEONG. 

Second Lieut. Robert W. Armstrong, of Co. 
G, was a native of New York city. He volunteerd 



Second Lieut. S. P. Butler. 57 

a sa Private, April, 1861, in Hawkin's Zouaves, with 
whom he was engaged in a number of important 
battles. He afterwards re-enlisted in the 16th N. 
Y. Cavalry, in which he received the promotion of 
First Sergeant of his Co. He was appointed 
Second Lieutenant in this Regiment. April 13th, 
1864, and was wounded in the hand at the battle of 
the Mine before Petersburg, July 30th, 1864. He 
was complimented for his great gallantry displayed 
on that day, having re-captured from the enemy a 
National color, belonging to another command. He 
was killed, Aug. 13th, 1864, by a ball shot through 
his heart, while commanding a Fatigue party in the 
Trenches before Petersburg. 

When the intelligence of this officers death was 
communicated to his home, the Sabbath-school of 
his Church, in which he had been long a. principal 
teacher, honored bis memory with a series of very 
appropriate resolutions. He was greatly esteemed 
in this command as an intelligent and brave officer, 
whose very positive moral character was high-toned 
and unswerving. 

SECOND LIEUT. & P. BUTLEE, 
Second Lieut. S. P. Butler, assigned to Co. G, 
to occupy vacancy made by death of Second Lieut. 
Armstrong, is a native of Pharsalia, N. Y. Several 
of his ancestors held commissioned offices in the 



58 Second Lieut. S. P. Butler. 



Army of the Revolutionary War, in which they also 
distinguished themselves by a number of brave acts. 
The Lieutenant entered the service as First Lieu- 
tenant of Co. C, 34th N. Y. Vols., May 1st, 1861. 
He was promoted to Captain of Co. H, of the same 
command, Oct. 18th, 1861. On account of physical 
disability contracted in the service, he was after- 
wards honorably discharged ; but when earnest calls 
were made to replenish the thinned ranks of the 
army he immediately responded by patriotically vol- 
unteering as a Private in Co. B, 114th, N. Y. He 
continued in this organization until his appointment 
of Second Lieutenant of this Regiment, Oct. 22nd, 
1864. He also served as commanding officer of a 
company of Sharp-shooters, 1st Div., 25th Corps. 
As an officer he enjoyed the confidence and esteem 
of all acquainted with him. 

He has actively participated in the following en- 
gagements, viz: Siege of Yorktown, May, 1862; 
Fair Oaks, June 1st, 1862; Peach Orchard, June 
28th, 1862 ; Savage Station, June 29th 1862; White 
Oak Swamp and Nelson Farm, June 30th, 1862; 
Malvern Hill, July 1st, 1862 ; Marksville Plains, La., 
May, 1864; Winchester, Sept. 18th, 1864 ; Fisher's 
Hill, 1864 ; Cedar Creek, Oct. 19th, 1864 ; Skirmish 
on Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864 ; Farm's Island, at 
Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 1865 ; and capture of 
Richmond, April 3rd, 1865. 



Capt. R. G. Dill. 59 

CAPT. B. G, DILL, 

Capt. R. G. Dill, commander of Co. H, is a na- 
tive of Newcastle, Pa. He volunteered April 15th, 
1861, as a Private in Co. B, 12th Pa., Infantry, and 
remained in connection with this command until its 
expiration of term of service, when he re-enlisted in 
Co. E, 102nd Pa. For his gallantry displayed in 
action he was, afterwards promoted to Corporal in 
his Company. In consequence of a disability con- 
tracted in the service he was honorably discharged ; 
but upon recovery he immediately returned to the 
field ; this time in Co. F, 103rd Pa. He was wound- 
ed in the left hand at the battle of Malvern Hill, 
July 1st, 1862, and again severely wounded, in left 
leg below the knee, in the Skirmish at Blount's Mills, 
April 7th, 1863. He received the appointment of 
Captain in this Regiment, April 2nd, 1864, and con- 
tinued in command of his Company in all its duties 
and actions to the final muster out. This officer, 
whose ability, experience and bravery, commend him 
to all, is a most worthy commander. 

He has taken part in the following actions, viz : 
Williamsburgh, May 5th, 1862 ; Seven Pines, May 
31st, 1862 ; Skirmish at Seven Pines, June 27th and 
28th, 1862; Malvern Hill, July 1st, 1862; Chantilly, 
Sept. 1st, 1862; Skirmish at Williamsport, Sept. 
19th, 1862; Skirmish at Blount's Mills, N. C, April 
7th, 1863; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 20tli, 



60 First Lieut. John P. Hawxhurst. 

1864 ; Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 
1864; Hatchie's Run, Oct 27th and 28th, 1864: 
skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864; Farm's 
Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 1865 ; and 
capture of Richmond, April 3rd, 1865. 

FIRST LIEUT. JOHN P. HAWXHUEST. 

First Lieut. John P. Hawxhurst, of Co. H, is 
a native of Otsego, -Wis., and the son of a widow. 
He volunteered Aug. 15th, 1862, in Co. G, 1st U. S. 
Sharp-shooters. At the battle of Gettysburg, July 
1st, 2nd and 3rd, 1863, he was severely wounded in 
his left hand. On account of this wound he was 
transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps. He is 
particularly mentioned for his distinguished bravery 
in his services with the 1st U. S. Sharp-shooters. 
He was appointed First Lieutenant in this Regi- 
ment, April 13th, 1864, and assigned to Co. H. He 
has served as commanding officer of Co. C, 23rd 
U. S. C. T., and as Pioneer officer, Headquarters 3rd 
Brig. 1st Div. 25th Corps. His services and gal- 
lantry in his connection with this command have won 
for him the uniform testimony of a good officer. 

He has participated in the following engagements, 
viz: Chancelorsville, May 3rd and 4th, 1863; Get- 
tysburg, July 1st, 2nd and 3rd, 1863 ; Weldon Rail- 
road, Aug. 19th and 20th, 1864; Poplar Grove.Church, 
-Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864 ; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th 



61 



and 28th, 1864; skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 
1864; Farm's island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 
25th, 1865; and capture of Richmond, April 3rd, 
1865* 

CAPT. J, B. REYNOLDS, 

Capt. J. B. Reynolds, commander of Co. I, is a 
native of Tivoli, Blue Earth county, Minn., and 
whose grand-father, George Reynolds, served in the 
eventful struggle of the Revolution until the Inde- 
pendence of the Colonies was triumphantly secured. 
The Captain volunteered first, April 22nd, 1861, as 
a Private in Co. E, 3rd Wis. Infantry, which Regi- 
ment was commanded by Col., nowMaj. Gen., Scuy- 
ler Hamilton. At the battle of Chancellorvilje.> May 
3rd and 4th, 1863, he was severely wounded in his 
left arm, by reason of which wound he was after- 
wards transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps. 
He was afterwards appointed Captain in this Regi- 
ment, April 13th, 1864, and assigned to the com- 
mand of Co. I. In this position he has participated 
with it in its actions and duties up to final discharge 
of Regiment. 

The unexceptionably good moral conduct of the 
men of this Company, and their discipline and bra- 
very, very favorably represent the character, ability 



* For history of Second Lieut. Daniel J. Hogan of Co. H ; see history, 
pf First Lieut. Hogan, Co. E. 



62 First Lieut. S. B. Kitchel. 

and worthiness of their commander, who has taken 
part in the following actions, viz : Chancelorsville, 
May 3rd and 4th, 1863; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 
19th and 20th, 1864; Poplar Grove Church, Sept, 
29th and 30th, 1864; Hatchie's Run, Oct 27th and 
28th, 1864 ; skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864; 
Farra's Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 1865 \ 
and capture of Richmond, April Sru 1 , 1865. 

FIEST LIEUT, S. B, KITCHEL. 

First Lieut. S. B. Kitchel, of Co. I, is a native 
pf Auburn, N. Y. His worthy grand-father was a 
soldier of the Revolutionary 'war. The Lieutenant 
first volunteered, Aug. 21st, 1862, as a Private in 
the 8th Independent Co. N. Y. State Sharp-shoot- 
ers, and is particularly complimented for his acts of 
great gallantry in connection with this organization. 
He was appointed First Lieutenant in this Regi- 
ment, April 1 0th, 1864. He has served as A. A. D. 
C, on Staff Brig. Gen. Commanding 3rd Brig. 4th 
Div. 9th Corps, and also 3d Brig. 1st Div. 25th Corps. 
As an officer he has always displayed the true char- 
acteristics of one worthy of his position. 

He has been in the following engagements, viz : 
Siege of Suffolk, June, 1863; Blackwater, June, 
1863; Mine Run, Nov. 27th, 1863; Rappahannock 
Station, Nov. 7th, 1863; skirmish at Haymarket, 
Dec. 2nd, 1863 ; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th and 



Lieuts. Moore and Sinclair. 63 

20th, 1864; Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 
30th, 1864; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 2Sth, 
1864; skirmish on the Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864 ; 
Farm's Island, Jan. 25th, 1865; and capture of 
Richmond, April 3rd, 1865. 

SECOND LIEUT. JAMES B. MOOEE. ' 
Second Lieut. James R. Moore, of Co. I. By 
order of the War Department, this officer was cash- 
iered and dismissed the service of the United States, 
for drunkenness, in accordance with sentence of 
General Court Martial, Headquarters 3rd Div. 9th 
Corps. Approved Nov. 4th, 1864. 

SECOND LIEUT, A. SINCLAIE. 
Second Lieut. A. Sinclair, of Co. I, is a native 
of Erie, Pa. He volunteered as a Private in Co. 
C, 16th Pa. Cavalry, Jan. 4th, 1864. He was im- 
mediately detailed by Gen. Copeland as Chief Clerk 
at the Draft Rendezvous of Pittsburg, Pa., and re- 
tained in this office until Dec. 21st ensuing, when 
under orders from the War Department, requiring 
all effective men of volunteers to be sent to their 
regiments in the field, he joined his command. He 
was appointed Second Lieutenant in this Regiment 
and assigned to Co. I. April 9th, 1865, in place of 
Second Lieut. Moore, cashiered and dismissed; 
This officer has manifested fine executive ability. 



64 Capt. H. V. Martin. 

CAPT. H, V, MABTIN. 

Capt. H. V. Martin, commander of Co. K, is a 
native of New York City. Eoth his grand-fathers 
were heroes of the Revolution of 1776, and others 
of his ancestory served in the War of 1812. He 
volunteered April 23rd, 1861, immediately after the 
attack on Sumpter, in Co. A, 10th N. Y. Vols., which 
Regiment was one among the first two-year organi- 
zations from N. Y. State to enter the field. Its 
career proved it to be a splendid command. It was 
particularly selected by Generals Butler and Wool 
to do garrison dutv in Fort Monroe. In its connec- 
tion with the Army of the Potomac, it was associated 
with Syke's Division of the 5th Corps, and after- 
wards with the 2nd Corps, and was chosen Head- 
quarter Guards to Gen. Sumner, when in command 
of the Right Grand Division of the Army. On its 
retiring from service, at the expiration of term, Gen. 
French takes the opportunity of reciting its achieve- 
ments and distinguished bravery in a published Cir- 
cular. Capt. Martin had enlisted as a Private in 
this Regiment, was promoted to Sergeant in his 
Company, July, 1861, and afterwards to Orderly 
Sergeant. He became acting Sergeant Major of 
the Regiment, July, 1862, and was promoted to 
Second Lieutenat of Co. H, Oct. 25th, 1862. He 
received also the promotion to First Lieutenant 
and Adjutant of his Regiment, Feb., 1863. These 



Capt. H. V. Martin. 65 

promotions were awarded him on account of his fine 
ability and distinguished services. At the battle of 
Fredericksburg, Dec. 13th and 14th, 1862, he re- 
ceived a wound on the cheek. 

He was appointed Captain in this Regiment, 
April 8th, 1864, and assigned to the command of 
Co. K. In his connection with this Regiment he has 
won the name of a fine officer and most worthy com- 
mander, whose moral character is unimpeachable, 
and whose Company has been complimented for its 
high standard of discipline, efficiency and bravery. 

He has served as Judge Advocate General Court 
Martial at Headquarters 4th Div. 9th Corps * and 
Judge Advocate General Court Marshal 1st Div. 
25th Corps ; and also Provost Martial of the Post of 
Brownsville, in the Western District of the Depart- 
ment of Texas. This latter office he held up to 
date of order mustering out this command. This 
officer is also recommended for Captaincy in the 
regular service by the Examining Board for officers 
of the regular army, appointed in the field by order 
of the War Department. 

He has shared in the following battles, viz : Big 
Bethel, June 10th, 1861 ; Skirmish at Shelltown, 
July, 1861 : skirmish at Cherry Stone Creek, Julv, 
1861 ; capture of Norfolk, May 10th, 1862; Gained 
Mills, June 27th, 1S62; Chickahominy, June 28thh 
1862; Malvern Hill, "July 1st, 1862; second Bull 

9 



66 First Lieut. S. P. Stacey. 

Run, Aug. 30th, 1862; Antietam, Sept. 17th, 1862; 
skirmish at Shepherdstown Ford, Sept. 20th, 1862; 
Fredericksburg, Dec. 13th, 1862; Weldon Rail- 
road, Aug. 19th and 20th, 1864; Poplar Grove Church, 
Sept. 29th and 30th, 1864 ; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th 
and 28th, 1864 ; skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 
1864; Farm's Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 
25th, 1865 ; and capture of Richmond, April 3rd, 
1865. 

FIEST LIEUT. S. P. STAGEY, 

First Lieut. S. P. Stacey, of Co. K, is a native 
of Springfield, Bradford county, Pa., and the only 
son of a widow. Both his grand-fathers were ac- 
tively engaged in the Revolutionary War, and his 
father, Joseph Stacey, served as a soldier in the war 
of 1812. The Lieutenant was a member of an In- 
dependent Company of Cavalry of Springfield, pre- 
vious to the rebellion He volunteered., April 22nd, 
1861, as a Private, in Co. H, 6th Pa. Reserves, 
and was promoted to Corporal in his Company. 
His name is intimately associated with the history of 
the brave Pennsylvania Reserves for deeds of great 
gallantry. He was appointed Second Lieutenant 
of Co. C, 171st Pa. Infantry, Dec, 1862, and re- 
mained with this command until its final discharge 
by reason of expiration of term of service. In re- 
sponse to the earnest call for men to recruit the 



First Lieut. S. P. Stacey. 67 



thinned ranks of our army, and with a noble exhibi- 
tion of patriotism, he entered the field as a volunteer 
Private, in Co. I, 148th Pa. Vols. At the battle of 
second Bull Run, Aug. 30th, 1862, he was wounded 
by a Back-shot in the left leg, which continues in 
the limb. At the battle of Antietam he suffered a 
severe wound by a ball entering below the left" eye. 
He was appointed First Lieutenant of this Regi- 
ment, April 14th, 1864. In his connection with this 
command he has shown himself to be an officer of 
military experience, ability and undoubted bravery. 

He has participated in the following engagements, 
viz : Drainesville, Dec. 20th, 1861 5 skirmish at Cat- 
lett's Station, March, 1862 ; skirmish at Ton Stall 
Station, April, 1862; Malvern Hill, July 1st, 1862; 
skirmish at Rappahannock Station, Aug., 1862 ; 
Thoroughfare Gap, Aug., 1862 ; Second Bull Run, 
Aug. 30th, 1862 ; South Mountain, Sept. 14th, 1862; 
Antietam, Sept. 17th, 1863 ; White Oak River, 
Feb:, 1863 ; Blount's Creek, April 7th, 1863 ; Mine 
Run, Nov. 27th, 1863; Weldon Railroad, Aug. 19th 
and 20th, 1864; Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th 
and 30th, 1864 ; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 
1864; skirmish on the Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864 ; 
Farm's Island, Jan. 25th, 1865; and capture of 
Richmond, April 3rd, 1865. 



68 Second Lieut. R. C. Phillips. 



SECOND LIEUT. E. C, PHILLIPS. 

Second Lieut. R. C. Phillips, of Co. K, is a 
native of Naples, N. Y., and whose grand-father, 
Daniel Phillips, won great distinction as a soldier in 
the war of 1812. The Lieutenant enlisted, Aug. 
2nd, 1862, as a Private in Co. C, 44th N. Y. Vols., 
which command was associated with the 5th Corps. 
At the battle of Gettysburg, July 1st, 2nd and 3rd, 
1863, he was severely wounded in the left shoulder 
and breast. He was appointed Second Lieutenant 
of this Regiment June 8th, 1864, but in consequence 
of severe illness he was unable to report before 
Sept. 1st, ensuing. He has been Pioneer Officer 
1st Brig. 4th Div. 9th Corps, and Assistant Provost 
Marshal 1st Div. 25th Corps. His intelligence and 
services entitle him to confidence and esteem. 

Pie has taken part in the following actions, viz. : 
Antietam, Sept. 17th, 1862; Chancelorsville, May 
3rd and 4th, 1863 ; skirmish at Middletown, Va.> 
June 21st, 1863 ; Gettysburg, July 1st 2nd and 3rd, 
1863 ; Poplar Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, 
1864; Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864 ; 
skirmish on Bermuda Front, Dec, 1864; Farm's 
Island, at Dutch Gap Canal, Jan. 25th, 1865 ; and 
capture of Richmond, April 3rd, 1865. 



Sutler T. McCabe. 69 
SUTLEE. 

Thomas McCabe, of Elmira, N. Y., was appoint- 
ed Sutler of this Regiment, April 18th, 1864, and 
remained in this position up to date of its final dis- 
charge. As a gentleman of strictly honest dealings, 
sobriety and intelligence, his relation with this com- 
mand was throughout satisfactory. He possessed 
the confidence and esteem of the officers and men. 

SEEGT. MAJ. E. B. FOETEN. 
Sergt. Maj. R. B. Forten, of Philadelphia, was 
appointed Sergeant Major of this Regiment, April 
8th, 1864, from a private of Co. A. He died June, 
1864. This colored soldier, who was formerly a 
resident of London, in Europe, possessed a liberal 
education, was intelligent and cultivated in no ordi- 
nary degree, but even to a most favorable compari- 
son with our own race. He discharged the duties 
of his position with ability and entire satisfaction. 
Wesley Jackson, (colored) Sergeant of Co. C, was 
appointed Sergeant Major, July 1st, 1865, for dis- 
tinguished bravery in action, and in place of George 
S. Massey reduced to the ranks. John C. Brock, 
of Carlisle, Pa., was appointed Quarter Master 
Sergeant, of the Regiment from Commissary Ser- 
geant. Joseph S. Hill, Serjeant of Co. C, was 
appointed Commissary Sergeant of the Regiment, 
in place of John C. Brock promoted. The officers 



70 



Non-Commissioned Staff. 



in command, as well as others of the Field, Staff 
and Line, take great pleasure in giving their uniform 
testimony in favor of the good degree of intelligence, 
true bravery and faithfulness of the afore-mentioned 
colored non-commissioned officers. 

Edward S. Perkins, (white) of Athens, Pa., and 
Hospital Steward, U. S. A., was assigned to this 
Regiment, March 11th, 1864. At the battle of 
Hatchie's Run, Oct. 27th and 28th, 1864, he was 
taken prisoner by the enemy, and confined in Libby 
Prison until Feb. 5th, 1865, when he was paroled. 
Upon discharge of this Regiment he was asssigned 
|o the 62nd U. S. C. T. 



THE REGIMENT. 



We take pleasure in mentioning the patriotism, 
energy and great activity of the Supervisory Com- 
mittee who had in charge the recruiting and organi- 
zing of colored troops at Philadelphia, during the war. 
Their success in the undertaking, resulted not only 
complimentary to themselves, but it was also most 
opportune to the Government, by adding to our 
armies an important element to aid in obtaining the 
complete victory 5 and according to another view of 
the case, by introducing the stone that had been so 
long rejected, or preserved only as a stumbling stone, 
but which the builders would then take up in estab- 
lishing and cementing a stronger and better Union. 

The First Battalion of the 43rd Regt. U. S. C. 
T., composed of Companies A, B, C, D, E and F, 
was recruited and organized, March, 1864, at Camp 
William Penn, Philadelphia, and left Camp, April 
18th, under command of Lieut. Col., now Brevet 
Col., H. Seymour Hall. It proceeded by railroad 
and steamer to Annapolis, Md., and there joined the 
9th Corps, under command of General Burnside. 



72 The Regiment. 

It was associated with the 1st Brig, of the 4th Div. of 
this Corps, commanded by General Ferrerro. The 
Corps took up its march April 23d, to join the 
Army of the Potomac. On their way through 
Washington they were reviewed by President Lin- 
co n, in the presence of many other public officers, 
and a large assembly of citizens. As these were the 
first colored troops destined to the Potomac Army, 
their soldierly appearance and movements were 
closely scanned. In passing in Review they saluted 
gracefully with their Colors and by loud hurrahs that 
Great Emancipator of their race. This, as President 
Lincoln afterwards expressed himself, was most 
gratifying to him, and riveted the confidence he had 
in the devotion of the Freedmen, and their efficiency 
to do a full share in the struggle. According to the 
public press, also, the occasion inspired the hearts of 
the large assembly who witnessed it, with a great de- 
gree of favor and interest. On that same day they 
crossed the Long Bridge into Virginia, and camped 
near Alexandria. They had now returned under 
the Starry Flag to the soil of their oppressors, ready 
by great achievements in the field and with their 
lives, to express their sincere gratitude to u Massa 
Lincoln,'" and seal their devotion to the Union. 
Much as the so-called Confederacy and its emmisa- 
ries in the North feigned contempt and ridicule in 
the case of employing this troop, the true sequel is 



The Regiment. 73 

that they regarded its advent with no flattering pros- 
pects for the success of the Rebellion, but ralher, as 
it was, a stunning blow. Going from Alexandria by 
way of Fairfax C. H., and Centerville, they arrived 
at Manassas Junction, and were immediately sta- 
tioned to do guard duty on the railroad. Afterwards 
they were quickly marched by Rappahannock' Sta- 
tion and over the Rapidan to reinforce the right of 
the army, which had been partially broken on that 
day. During the celebraled Wilderness Campaign, 
and up to Cold Harbor and Old Church, their posi- 
tion was on the right flank of the army. In these 
engagements they manifested great steadiness and 
intrepidity under severe fire, and immediately pro- 
ved themselves a reliable troop. Their losses in 
these actions were comparatively light. Company 
G, under cqmmand of Capt. A. D. Wright, joined 
the First Battalion of the Regiment, June 6th, near 
Old Church, Va. June 12th, they marched by 
White House Landing and New Kent C. H., cross- 
ing the Chickahominy at Jone's Bridge, to the James 
River, where they took up a position protecting the 
crossing of the army. They passed over the James 
on the 17th, and next day marched to the front before 
Petersburg. Here they were employed by working 
parties in the trenches and on fortifications, under 
the almost constant fire of the enemy. The field 
works and the "Covered Way," leading to the 

10 



74 • The Regiment. 

front line were mostly constructed by the colored 
troops. 

Preparatory to the battle of July 30th, this Bat- 
talion of the 43rd Regiment, with the addition of 
Co. G, moved up through the "covered way" to the 
ravine at the mouth of the Mine, and there awaited 
the explosion and the order to charge. Under com- 
mand of the brave Brevet Col. Hall, at that time 
Lieut. Col., they advanced nobly to the charge, be- 
having with great coolness and gallantry, taking the 
works which the enemy stubbornly tried to retain, 
and capturing prisoners and colors. The lack of an 
ultimate and permanent triumph on that day, was, by 
no means or measure, the fault of this troop, but on 
account of other failures and neglects, as was after- 
wards reported by the Investigating Committee. 
In this battle it would be difficult to enumerate par- 
ticular cases of great bravery, where all seem to vie 
with each other in the brilliancy and gallantry of their 
achievements. Colored non-commissioned officers 
fearlessly took command after their commandants 
(white commissioned officers) were killed, or borne 
severely wounded from the field, and led on the at- 
tack to the close. As each brave color bearer was 
shot down, another and another would immediately 
grasp the National emblem, all riddled with balls, 
and plant it further on the enemies line. In this 
terrifi cengagement, this Battalion, of the 43rd, had its 



The Regiment. 75 

Colors almost entirely cut up by the fire, and the 
Color Staffs splintered and broken. Its casualties 
were, one officer killed, ten severely wounded, inclu- 
the gallant Col. Hall, who sustained the loss of his 
right arm, and two taken prisoner ; and twenty-eight 
men killed, ninety-four wounded and twelve missing. 
It was afterwards discovered that the missing were 
men rendered helpless by reason of severe wounds, 
and whom the Rebels deliberately put to death on 
the field, by bayoneting them. The following is an 
extract from the official report of the Brigade com- 
mander, relative to that battle. "The 43d Regt. U. • 
S. C. T. charged over the crest of the Crater, and 
right upon the enemies works, carrying them, captu- 
ring a number of prisoners, a Rebel battle flag, and 
re-capturing a stand of National colors. Lieut. Col. 
H. Seymour Hall, commanding 43rd Regt. U. S. C. 
T., lost his right arm while bravaly leading his Regi- 
ment.'" Here on this, as on many other fields dur- 
ing this war, for the sacred cause of our Repub- 
lican Liberties, Free Institutions and Union, the 
blood of the Anglo-saxon and the African min- 
gled very freely in the full measure of a devoted 
offering. \ 

Companies H, I, and K, of this Regiment, left 
Camp William Penn, Philadelphia, under orders, 
July 11th, 1864, in a Provisional Battalion command- 
ed by Lieut. Col Wagner, 88th Pa. Vfcls., and pro-- 



76 The Regiment. 

ceeded by railroad to Havre-de-grace, Md. At this 
point Company I, was detached, and sent to Gun- 
powder Bridge. The remainder of the Battalion 
passed on, by transport, to Fort McHenry, and 
marched through Baltimore, taking a position near 
Birney Barracks, in the defences of the city, which 
was threatened by a bold and extensive Rebel raid. 
These Companies again joined at Camp Casey, Va. 7 
and under command of Maj. Horace Bumstead, em- 
barked on the steamer "Highland Light," for City 
Point. They arrived before Petersburg, Aug. 3rd, 
when Maj. Bumstead took command of the Regi- 
ment entire. After the fight of July 30th, and until 
the advance on the Weldon Railroad, this Regiment 
served industriously with the spade, working in the 
trenches and on almost every part of the extensive 
line before Petersburg ; and the impregnability of the 
position afterward, was, to a great measure, the re- 
suit of their toil. In the engagements of the Wel- 
don Raiiroad, Aug. 19th and 20th, and Poplar 
Grove Church, Sept. 29th and 30th, its losses were 
comparatively few. In the battle of HatcmVs Run, 
Oct. 27th and 28th, it held the position of skirmish- 
ers on the advance of the 9th Corps line of battle, 
and most gallantly assisted in repulsing the repeated 
charges of Hill's Corps. In face of a severe fire it 
hastily constructed two lines of breast works. Its 
losses in this action were, one officer killed and four 



The Regiment. 17 

wounded, and seven men killed, eighteen wounded 
and one taken prisoner. 

After portions of Longstreefs Corps had made a 
favorable attack on the Union position, on the Ber- 
muda Front, and succeded in capturing a part of the 
line, from the one year Regiments of white troops? 
lately stationed there to to defend it, with a number 
also of these troops as prisoners, this Regiment with 
some others, were detached from the army of tho 
Potomac on the left of the line, and sent by forced 
marching, across the Appomattox, to regain, if pos- 
sible, the lost position. It moved on to the line 
Sunday, P. M., and was instantly welcomed by Long- 
street's bravadoes, exulting yet in their recent victory, 
with a storm of balls and shells, and the significant 
appellation of "Smoked Yankees." But when these 
brave "Smoked Yankees" replied, as they did at 
once, by a most brilliant charge, that made them 
masters of the situation, driving Longstreets brava- 
does to their old kennels and recovering the lost 
ground, the Rebel hilarity ceased. Their strata- 
gems afterward, massing of troops and charges, ac- 
companied with terrific firing, and which was perse- 
vered in almost daily and nightly for a month ; 
resulted only in their bitter loss, and was a conclu- 
sive proof to them that their so-called "Smoked Yan- 
kees" were of a species whom they could neither 
drive nor dismay. They continued to hold the line 



78 The Regiment. 

against all odds, and ministered to Longstreet's 
hordes the most severe castigation for their insolence 
it was ever their good fortune to obtain. In an al- 
most incredible short time the "Smoked Yankee" 
became a very defSirable companion, whose friendly 
acquaintance the Rebel Picket would seek to culti- 
vate,' at the same time entreating him that a mutual 
agreement for the better security of life and limb 
might be established. The -'Smoked Yankee" 
soldier invariably answered him : "I obeys de 
orders ob de obicers. When de orders be to fire,, 
I fires on you, and when de orders be to charge, 
I charges on you, you must den get out, Johnnie 
Reb." 

The Regiment was now associated with the 3rd 
Brig. 1st Div. 25th Corps, and was commanded by 
Col, now Brevet Brig. Gen., S. B. Yeoman, who 
relieved Maj. Bumstead. On the night of Decern-, 
ber 10th, it was temporally detached, and hurriedly 
marched, as a reinforcement, to the North side of" 
the James, at a point of the line near the New 
Market Road. The enemy had contemplated a 
combined attack on the right wing of our army, with 
the intention of turning it. They were, however, 
not successful in their purpose, and abandond it; 
and this Regiment was remanded to its former 
place on the Bermuda Hundred. It remained there 
until Dec. 31st, when the whole Brigade again 



The Regiment. 79 

crossed the James, and took up a position near Fort 
Harrison, before Richmond. 

Jan. 25th, 1865 when the Rebel Gun-boats pro- 
ceeded down the River, and engaged the Union fleet 
from a point in the bend, just below the upper end 
of Dutch Gap Canal, intending to oblige the fleet to 
retire and then capture City Point, our base of sup- 
plies, this Regiment occupied the river bank from 
Cox's Landing to Dutch Gap, with a detachment 
also across the Canal, that skirmished through Far- 
m's Island, to within a short distance of the How- 
lett House Battery: They also kept up such a con- 
tinuous hail of their small arms upon the enemy's 
Gun-boats, as to prevent them from opening their 
port-holes, and consequently entirely silenced their 
guns. This must be recorded as an instance where, 
much to chagrin of the chivalry, our unshod infantry 
effectually silenced their iron clads. 

From this time the Regiment was intimately iden- 
tified with all the movements occurring on the line, 
and in all the advances and charges on the Rebel 
strongholds, until April 3rd, 1865, with the whole of 
General Weitzel's forces, it entered triumphantly 
the great Babylon of treason. "Mene, Mene, 
Tekel, Upharsin," written in the deserted public 
palaces and on the charred timbers of its smoking 
buildings, was now explicable, but the Belshazzar of 
the so-called Confederacy had left his throne, a 



80 The Regiment. 

hasty fugitive, and his hosts were in a precipitate re- 
treat. The Union, with its Free Institutions, must 
and shall be preserved, rang out all over the land, 
many who had once been manacled slaves caught 
up these notes with a sacred joy, as they marched 
victorious Freedmen in the Capitol of their Oppres- 
sors. General Weitzel dispatched, April 3rd, A. M.-? 
u We took Richmond at 8.15, this morning. 

" 'Twas three o'clock of a Sabbath day, 
And in St.- Paul's Chapel, old and gray, 
With his sad-robed wife, and others too, 
The traitor sat in his cushioned pew, 
List'ning the service half way through, 
And praying the Lord his soul to shrive,' 
On the second of April, 'Sixty-five. 

I'hree o'clock by the old church dial- 
Past the Sexton and up the aisle 
Walked a trooper with trembling knee,' 
Holding a letter from R. E. Lee 
To Jefferson Davis, P. S. C, 
"Up," it said, "out of Richmond drive 
Ere the third of April, 'Sixty-five." 

Twelve at night, and the crashing shell 
Drown the tone of the steeple bells, 
Scared at the thickening thunder peals,' 
Hurrying feet and whirling wheels, ! 
Flee at the fleeing traitor's heels, 
And none to stay them are left alive 
By the third of April, 'Sixty-five'. 

Six in tne morning, sunrise red, 
Showed long rows of the Rebel dead,- 
Tired Battalion and torn Brigade 



The Regiment. 

Quivered to Weitzel's cannonade ; 
And, half in fury and half afraid. 
Swore for their City still to strive 
On the third of April 'Sixty-five.' 

Eight o'clock, and the battle call 
Sounds at the inmost bulwark wall. 
Hoarser the Rebels' shouts reply — 
Their guns are empty, their lips are dry, 
And hundreds who vowed to win or die 
Sullenly yield themselves alive 
On the third of April 'Sixty-five. 

Eight and a quarter the strife is o'er, 
Blind with powder and red with gore, 
Richmond's garrison, surly and dumb, 
Stand, while by them with bugle and drum 
General Weitzel's Freedmen come; 
And through their streets the cavalry drive 
On the third of April 'Sixty-five. 

And forth from gateway, alley and lane, 
Glad slaves run trooping, a swarthy train, 
And martyrs from Libby's Prison hole 
Laugh and cheer for their long "parole," 
And a myriad of welcomes heavenward roll, 
As our host in the Rebel-hold arrive 
On the third of April 'Sixty-five. 

Shout, ye millions of brave and free, 
O'er flying Davis, and fallen Lee , 
Honor to Weitzel and Sheridan 5 
Honor to Grant, who laid the plan ; 
Glory to God, who helpeth man, 
For under his might our cause did thrive 
On the third of April 'Sixty-five." 
U 



82 The Regiment. 

The importunate cry of the nation, — "On to Rich- 
mond," being answered so successfully by Freedmen 
clad in blue, must and will appear as a significant 
fact in the history of the war. 

After the surrender of Lee, and in anticipation of 
the expedition southward, this Regiment marched 
back to Camp Lincoln, near City Point. May 30th 
it embarked on the steamer "Atlanta," and proceed- 
ing by the Ocean and Gulf routes, arrived at Brazos 
Santiago, Texas, on the Gulf of Mexico, June 23rd. 
During this expedition it lost, by death, one man, 
whose body was committed to the great deep. On 
its march thence to Brownsville, it passed over Tay- 
lor's battle grounds of the Mexican war, Palo Alto 
and Resaca de la Palma. These preserve some 
marks of the conflict, but the achivement of our arms 
then, has been greatly surpassed, by victories on 
fields recently obtained. It camped, finally, on the 
bank of the Rio Grande River, opposite the city of 
Matamoras, Mexico. The flourishing blockade 
trade conducted by the adherents of Maximilian, on 
the one hand, according to the French version of 
neutrality, and by the so-called Confederacy on the 
other, was now interrupted by the presence of 
United States Troops. His Majesty, in his plea for 
imperial recognition by the United States, will not 
forget to importune by reason of his friendly services 
during the war. 



The Regiment. 83 

The Regiment was ordered North, for final dis- 
charge, and returning as far as New Orleans, after 
waiting there for transportation, it embarked Nov. 
9th on the steamer Merrimac, having other passen- 
gers besides. After a considerable distance at sea, 
this vessel sprung a leak. The water gained so 
rapidly, as, in a very short time, to put out the 
fires, and stop the engine. She now depended 
entirely on her sails for motive power. The case 
was a most crilical one. Horses had to be thrown 
overboard, as well as a large amount of goods. The 
pumps of the main engine were useless, and the other 
pumps on deck were discovered, certainly by a crimi- 
nal neglect, to be out of order. Buckets, pails, kettles 
and barrels were all mustered for bailing, which was 
conducted through two of the hatchways, fore and 
aft of the engine, and for the management of which 
the Regiment was divided into two reliefs. This 
systematized work was continued day and night for 
sixty-five hours successively, barely keeping even 
with the water, until the steamer was run upon the bar, 
at the mouth of the Mississippi. For the credit of 
the brave men, and in behalf of the endurance of the 
race, it ought to be recorded, that they worked 
cheerfully and well, during all those weary and anx- 
ious hours. The Regiment was landed again at 
New Orleans. After a gratuitous issue of clothino- 
by order of Gen. Sheridan, to supply, in part, the 



84 The Regiment. 

loss incident to this perilous trip, it embarked in the 
steamer "Costa Rica," arrived at New York, Nov. 
26th, and was finally discharged at Philadelphia, 
Nov. 30th, 1865. Its casualties in service were, of- 
ficers killed three, wounded eleven, and three dis- 
charged by reason of wounds ; and men killed, died 
of wounds and disease, three hundred and six, and 
missing one hundred and ninety-six. 



THE COLORED TROOP. 



The object of the Government, in the case 
of commandants of colored troops, was to secure 
officers of acknowledged military talent, experience, 
and unexceptionably good moral character. It 
therefore instituted the Examining Board for Officers,, 
under the Presidency of General Casey, The offi- 
cers assigned to commands in this service, entered 
upon the duties of their respective positions in this 
regular way. Many of them advanced, battle-scarred, 
step by step from the ranks. Some were previously 
connected with the regular annv, and others with 
the volunteer forces. Their ability, bravery and 
gentlemanly character, in the strictest sense, produ- 
ced a happy effect upon the troop. When it is 
considered that in the face of threatenings of a mer- 
ciless death by the Rebels, should the fortuues of 
war place them in their hands, and against a current 
of prejudice, extant almost everywhere, and the 
whispered doubts and tears even of friends to the 



86 The Colored Troop. 

cause, they assumed command of this troop in its 
experimental state, and led it on to victory ; their 
high-toned and unselfish patriotism, in this respect, is 
only equaled by the bravery and gallantry of their 
services. They are also the fit witnesses of the en- 
durance, efficiency and bravery of the troop as 
attested on the field, and their susceptibility of true 
progress in intellectual culture. This troop in mili- 
tary discipline and efficiency, bore a very favorable 
comparison with any other. Their standard was not 
simply passable, but excellent. In battle they were 
remarkable for their great coolness and courage. 
The school system inaugurated for their benefit, and 
which was conducted in many commands, in the 
camp and on the field, in its result, was a decided 
refutation to the argument, that this race could not 
be improved. 

Now, however, by more than sixty thousand sons 
of Liberty, of African descent, than whom none 
other fought with greater gallantry, numbered with 
the patriot dead, and by the many thousand heroic 
survivors, whose maimed bodies and torn and tatter- 
ed battle flags, tell how fields were won, what is en- 
joined on the Nation? This fact alone forbids that 
any vestige of the former state of the oppression of 
this race should remain. It requires another posi- 
tive duty. What are Freedmen without citizenship ? 
Some doubt that they have sufficient knowledge to 



The Colored Troop. 87 

participate in this right. The presumptive judges, 
with their emissaries, who have forfeited this right to 
themselves, and are also culprits, blamable and 
guilty for any lack of such knowledge, in the case of 
this loyal race, entertain the doubt; and their weak 
faith cannot truly be shrouded in deeper uncertainty 
than that of every intelligent patriot, who contem- 
plates the true exercise of the right of suffrage and 
representation by those whose hands are yet red 
with the blood of our noble slain. It is also said the 
liberated race, in their new relation, will not prove 
themselves industrious citizens. This argument by 
the indolent drones of the States in rebellion, and 
whose very sustenance was derived from the unpaid 
toil of this people, turns upon them with a peculiar 
reactionary force. We doubt not, it will be an 
easier task to elevate to a degree of intelligence, 
virtue and'industry, and to imbue with the spirit of 
our Institutions as worthy citizens these Freed men, 
thousands of whom pressed forward to the support 
of the Government, in the dark period of our 
country's history, than by any process of legislation 
that cleanses only the outside of the platter, to at- 
tempt to infuse loyalty into the hearts of those lately 
in armed rebellion, and in the name of the public 
peace, and in honor to Republican Liberty, to admit 
the Catalines and Judas Iscariots to the Senate and 
Congress of the United States. In a disregard of 



88 The Colored Troop. 

justice to the memory of our patriot dead, white 
and colored, such legislation would be worse than 
treason. No man, who voluntarily raised his hand 
against the flag, upheld by our patriot martyrs in the 
field, should ever participate in our legislation. If 
the Republic will be true to itself, it must and will be 
also to those who were, and are so eminently true to, 
it. Punish treason, and reward loyalty. 



THE 



FORTY-THIRD REGIMENT 

UNITED STATES 

COLORED TROOPS. 




GETTYSBURG: 

J. E. WIBLE, PRINTER, NORTH-EAST CORNER OF THE DIAMOND. 

1866. 



I 



